The Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders is getting a lot of attention — and not necessarily good attention.
It seems like the Browns are always having problems at the quarterback position, and head coach Todd Monken hasn't helped on that front by letting things drag out this far. While starting Sanders seems to make the most sense based on his age and contract situation, it sounds more and more likely that Watson will be Monken's pick.
Kyle Brandt of NFL Network recently had a lot to say in support of Sanders being the Browns' Week 1 starter. Here's part of his rant on the battle between the two quarterbacks and his displeasure with how the Browns are handling things:
"If it's any way close, and it seems like it is, wouldn't you want to go with the guy who might become good, who might become better when he's out there? And also someone who's going to make the fans happier? Who's actually a born-and-bred Cleveland Brown? ... What is the win in starting Deshaun Watson? Why are we doing this? He may be slightly better, and he was good six years ago. I would roll with Shedeur."
Starting Deshaun Watson may do more harm than good for the Browns
Brandt certainly didn't sugarcoat this dog-and-pony show of a competition and makes some good points with his remarks. The biggest question he has for the Browns is why start Watson when you already know what you've got. Watson has been with the Browns since 2022. Going with the younger Sanders makes a lot more sense.
While there's been a lot of discussion among fans and analysts on the situation, most agree that you need to find out what you have in Sanders.
The Browns may look to the 2027 NFL Draft to search for a new quarterback. You would think that the team would be more eager to start Sanders at the start of the season to evaluate his future in Cleveland.
It's simply a waste of time to give Watson the starter's role now. Hopefully, the Browns are paying attention to the fans and their lack of support for Watson. The season and the fans' support for the team are already at risk before it even begins.
That's what Brandt was trying to say about this quarterback battle and why bypassing Sanders is a critical mistake by the team.
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