Overview
- Coach Todd Monken says the competition remains open and that padded, game‑simulation work and preseason starts will determine the starter.
- Multiple camp reports show Deshaun Watson receiving extended first‑team reps and outperforming Shedeur Sanders in move‑the‑ball, game‑simulation periods.
- Observers and Sanders’ camp confirmed a blister on a finger of his throwing hand, he has been bandaged in practice and the team has not placed him on the official injury report.
- Monken plans to have each of the top quarterbacks start a preseason game so coaches can compare live, padded game reps before naming a Week 1 starter.
- The decision carries roster and money consequences because Watson is in the final year of a fully guaranteed, high‑value contract while Sanders is a low‑cost, team‑controlled young option and public analysts and fans are urging Cleveland to pick Sanders.