Sanders to Start for Browns Sunday

Head coach Todd Monken announced on Friday that Shedeur Sanders will start at quarterback for the Cleveland Browns in their game against the New Orleans Saints. The decision follows an injury to veteran Deshaun Watson, who currently remains in the concussion protocol.

Watson reported concussion symptoms on Tuesday morning and was placed in the protocol shortly after. He is listed as questionable for Sunday's contest. Monken has not yet decided if Watson will serve as the backup quarterback, a choice that depends on whether medical staff grant him final clearance.

Sanders took all starting reps during the team's practice sessions this week. This marks his first start of the 2026 season. The fifth-round pick out of the 2025 draft made seven starts as a rookie last year. In those games, he completed 56.6 percent of his passes for 1,400 yards, throwing seven touchdowns and ten interceptions. He went three and four in those appearances.

Sanders said he used his first year to identify areas for improvement. He stated that he has worked on those aspects during the offseason and training camp. "Last year, I was able to see what I needed to see, feel different things during the games and understand what I need to get better at," Sanders said Wednesday. He added that he is excited for the chance to compete.

Monken praised Sanders for his diligence and natural confidence. The coach noted that young players need playing time to develop. He pointed to specific improvements in Sanders' footwork, drops, mechanics, and understanding of where to take the ball. Monken also cited an increased sense of urgency in Sanders' work through progressions and protections. "There were so many things he needed to work on, and he's done that like any young player," Monken said.

Sanders has attempted just three passes in spot appearances across two games this season. He did split reps with the first offense during training camp. Dillon Gabriel, who returned from injured reserve last week, is a potential backup option for Sunday. Rookie Taylen Green, a sixth-round pick, will return to the role of emergency quarterback for the first seven games of the season while Watson is sidelined.

The Browns play the Saints on the road on Sunday. Watson's status as a backup remains pending final medical clearance.