Shedeur Sanders-Deshaun Watson QB Competition Updated By Browns OC Amid OTAs

The Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition has commenced as the team holds its OTAs, but it seems neither Shedeur Sanders nor Deshuan Watson has an early edge.

"I don't know that we have somebody who's ahead," offensive coordinator Travis Switzer told reporters on Wednesday. "We're pleased with both their progress, and all the guys are doing a nice job."

Sanders finished the 2025 season as Cleveland's starter, but Watson wasn't in the picture last year as he recovered from a torn Achilles.

Sanders looked the part of a rookie quarterback in his eight appearances with 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions, but he did show some flashes, like a 364-yard, four-touchdown performance against the Tennessee Titans in December.

Watson is the veteran of the group, but he has played just 19 games since arriving in Cleveland in 2022 and hasn't appeared in a game since October 2024.

"I think that both of those guys and really all of our guys are progressing very well," Switzer said. "Very pleased in what we've seen in the growth. Like I said, a lot of is the familiarity with the system — getting a little more comfortable as we move on. But their progression, just in the short time that we've been so far is very encouraging, and we're excited about that."

The Browns also have Dillon Gabriel and 2026 draft pick Taylen Green as options under center, but it's fair to assume the quarterback duel will mostly be between Sanders and Watson this offseason.

Cleveland has OTAs this week and next before holding mandatory minicamp June 9-11, where the quarterback battle is sure to heat up.