Jared Verse Speaks Out About Browns’ Quarterback Battle

Cleveland Browns defensive end Jared Verse offered a subtle clue Thursday about the team’s ongoing quarterback competition, though he stopped short of naming his preference.

Speaking on “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” Verse addressed the battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders.

“I don’t know who it’s going to be. I think I have a vibe on who I think will go out there but I don’t have any know or say,” Verse said. “I’m not going to say it but I have a personal feeling on who I think it will be. Either way, no matter who we go with, I feel confident.”

Cowherd pressed further, asking whether the player in question was young, a clear nod to Sanders.Verse laughed and replied, “I can’t answer any of your questions.”

The exchange left fans and analysts guessing about which quarterback the standout edge rusher favors heading into the final stretch of the preseason.

Watson and Sanders have traded first-team repetitions throughout training camp under head coach Todd Monken.

Each received a start in the Browns’ preseason opener against the Chicago Bears.

Watson completed 11 of 15 passes for 126 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions, guiding the offense to 10 points before exiting. Sanders took over in the second half and went 5 of 10 for 74 yards with one interception.

After reviewing the film, Monken described the race as still tight.

“I did feel going into last game that it was relatively close in terms of both having an opportunity at the starting position, so it would be unfair to not go into the next game and give Shedeur that same opportunity,” Monken said. “Albeit a different team, certainly at home. There’s no guarantee the same players will be playing in this game, but it’s the closest you have, and we owe it to both players, who have handled it well and competed at a high level.”

The evaluation continued during joint practices with the Buffalo Bills earlier this week.

Monken came away pleased with how the Browns’ offense performed against a strong defensive unit.

“The one thing I would say, maybe it was just me, it didn’t look like we were out of place,” Monken said. “It looked like we belong. That’s all we wanted to see: Do we belong? Does our first 11 give us a chance to move the ball and score? I felt that way today.”

Sanders is scheduled to start Cleveland’s second preseason contest against the Bills and is expected to play roughly a half.

Several veteran starters may sit out after heavy work in the joint sessions, meaning Sanders could operate without the full complement of first-team skill players and offensive linemen.

Watson is projected to enter the game after Sanders, with undrafted free agent Dillon Gabriel receiving the remaining snaps.

Monken has not set a firm date for announcing the Week 1 starter. The Browns must soon shift focus toward their regular-season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Verse’s comments add another layer of intrigue to a competition that has dominated conversation around the team this summer. Both quarterbacks have drawn praise for their preparation and demeanor amid the intense scrutiny.

Watson brings extensive NFL experience and proven arm talent, while Sanders offers youth, mobility and the ability to extend plays outside the pocket.

Monken has repeatedly emphasized that the decision will rest on which player gives the offense the best chance to succeed consistently.

Verse, acquired in a high-profile trade and already establishing himself as a cornerstone of the defense, made clear that he trusts the coaching staff’s process regardless of the outcome. His reluctance to tip his hand on the air only fueled further speculation among listeners.

As the preseason winds down, all eyes remain on how Sanders performs in his upcoming start and whether Watson can reclaim the job with a strong response.

The Browns’ defensive players, including Verse, appear ready to support whichever quarterback ultimately takes the first snap of the regular season.