Shedeur Sanders Smacked With Brutal Update On Browns’ Starting Quarterback Competition

Shedeur Sanders. (Photo Credit: Lisa Scalfaro / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

Shedeur Sanders Smacked With Brutal Update On Browns’ Starting Quarterback Competition

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Orlando Silva | Last updated Apr 29, 2026 5:57 PM ET

After entering the 2026 offseason as the favorite to land the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback role, Shedeur Sanders could be on the verge of losing that spot. The second-year quarterback, who seemingly developed a solid relationship with new head coach Todd Monken, could see another player start next season.

The Browns drafted another quarterback in the 2026 NFL draft, which added more pressure to the former Colorado Buffaloes star.

With four quarterbacks on the roster, Cleveland prepares for a couple of busy months, where they will define QB1 and QB2 for 2026.

Shedeur Sanders Drops In Todd Monken’s Pecking Order

Shedeur Sanders. Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot reported on Wednesday that Deshaun Watson emerged as the early favorite to start for the Browns next season.

“Deshaun Watson emerged from the Browns’ voluntary minicamp last week with an edge over Shedeur Sanders in the two-man quarterback competition — and has the inside track to be named the Browns QB1, sources tell cleveland.com,” she wrote.

“Coach Todd Monken hopes to declare — or at least identify — his starter by the end of Browns minicamp June 9-11, meaning Sanders has about six weeks to close the gap and try to overtake the former three-time Pro Bowler.”

Kabot noted that Sanders will have time to catch up with Watson, but once the mandatory minicamp arrives, whoever gets the first-team reps will start for the Browns next campaign.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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