Deshaun Watson Takes First-Team Reps as Browns Narrow Quarterback Competition
Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken broke training camp rotation patterns by awarding Deshaun Watson exclusive first-team reps during Saturday’s practice. The veteran quarterback appears to be leading second-year player Shedeur Sanders as the preseason opener against Chicago approaches.
Key takeaways
- Deshaun Watson broke the 50-50 training camp rep rotation by taking all first-team snaps on Saturday.
- Shedeur Sanders remains a primary competitor but is currently trailing the veteran in consistency and operational knowledge.
- Head coach Todd Monken is prioritizing veteran experience despite the franchise's recent shift toward a younger roster.
What Happened
For the first time during the Cleveland Browns’ current training camp, the coaching staff altered the established rotation between quarterbacks Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. Despite an earlier announcement from head coach Todd Monken that Sanders would receive the majority of snaps, Watson took every rep with the starting offensive unit during the Saturday session. This move deviated from the 50-50 rep split that had characterized the first eight days of camp.
Team officials indicated the decision was based on specific personnel groupings Monken intended to evaluate with Watson. While Sanders has demonstrated talent in camp, reports suggest Watson’s consistency and familiarity with team operations have given him an advantage in the battle for the starting role. The session marked Watson's third consecutive strong performance following a period of early struggles where he threw six interceptions in the first four days of camp.
Background
The Browns are navigating a transitional period following a series of roster changes and a disappointing return on the 2022 acquisition of Watson. After missing the 2025 season due to a recurring Achilles injury, Watson is entering the final year of a guaranteed $230 million contract. The franchise recently pivoted toward a youth movement, which included the June trade of Myles Garrett and the selection of quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders in the 2025 draft.
Sanders, who started seven games as a rookie last year, had been alternating lead duties with Watson throughout the spring and early summer. However, the lack of a clear starter prompted Monken to test Watson's leadership of the primary offense as the team prepares for its first preseason game.
Key Facts
- Deshaun Watson took 100% of the first-team offensive reps during Saturday's practice in Berea, Ohio.
- The Browns' quarterback room has combined for 18 interceptions during competitive drills over the first ten days of camp.
- Watson has not appeared in a professional game since October 2024 following an Achilles tendon injury.
- Shedeur Sanders, a fifth-round pick in 2025, started seven games during his rookie season.
- Head coach Todd Monken is in his first year leading the Cleveland Browns.
- The team traded away veteran quarterbacks Kenny Pickett and Joe Flacco during the 2025 season.
What Happens Next
The Cleveland Browns will begin their preseason schedule on Saturday against the Chicago Bears. This matchup is expected to provide further clarity on how Monken intends to distribute playing time between Watson and Sanders before the regular season begins.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
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