Deshaun Watson Takes QB1 Reps over Shedeur Sanders Despite Browns' Stated Plan

Deshaun Watson practiced with the Cleveland Browns' first-team offense over Shedeur Sanders on Saturday as both quarterbacks continued to battle for the starting job.

According to ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi, Watson worked with the starters in the first three portions of team drills despite Browns head coach Todd Monken saying that Sanders would get the majority of the available first-string reps before the start of practice.

Sanders ultimately spent most of his time with the second-team offense.

It marked the second consecutive day that the veteran was part of the Browns' starting offense.

Watson previously took all the first-team reps in Friday's non-padded session with mixed results. He threw a touchdown pass in the two-minute drill to conclude the day despite also tossing his eighth interception in nine practices, via Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com.

It's worth noting that Sanders spent three out of four practices working with the starters in the first phase of padded sessions heading into Saturday's action, per Cabot.

Monken seemingly wanted Watson to receive more first-team reps, though.

Sanders appeared in eight games as a rookie with the Browns last year, completing 56.6 percent of his throws for 1,400 yards and seven touchdowns as well as 10 interceptions. He also rushed for 169 yards and one score.

As for Watson, he missed the entire 2025 season after undergoing multiple surgeries on his right Achilles tendon.

The Browns' quarterback competition should gain some more clarity once the preseason begins, starting with a clash against the Chicago Bears on Aug. 15.