Overview
- Watson returned to limited practice this week with a 21-day window opened, but league reports say he is unlikely to play this season.
- The financial hit to move on is massive — roughly $135 million in dead money before June 1 or about $53 million as a post–June 1 cut — with an estimated $81.7 million cap number in 2026.
- Shedeur Sanders will make his third straight start against the Titans as the Browns prioritize evaluating Sanders and Dillon Gabriel over the season’s final weeks.
- Gabriel started much of the first half (1–5 with 937 yards, seven TDs and two INTs) before Sanders took over, and the team wants maximum reps to inform 2026 draft decisions with two first-round picks.
- Some league insiders believe Cleveland could explore trading one of the young quarterbacks next offseason, while Watson’s role in 2026 could range from starter to veteran bridge depending on evaluations.