Overview
- Deshaun Watson has held the starting role and helped the Browns to a 2-1 start, most recently completing the go-ahead touchdown pass in a 21-18 win over Carolina.
- For now the team lists Shedeur Sanders directly behind Watson on the depth chart and NFL insider Ian Rapoport said he has not sensed Cleveland is ready to trade Sanders.
- Sanders’ rookie numbers — 56.6% completion, 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions in eight games — are widely cited as reasons he needs to improve accuracy and ball security.
- The Browns own two first-round picks in the 2027 draft, and a Wednesday mock draft projecting Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss to Cleveland illustrates a clear route that would make Sanders a trade candidate if the team chooses to use a pick on a QB.
- What to watch next: Watson’s consistency, Sanders’ development in relief opportunities, and Cleveland’s draft position and appetite for a quarterback will determine whether the team keeps Sanders as an in-house insurance option or moves him for draft capital.