Browns coach outlines preseason quarterback rotation but withholds starter name
Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken said both quarterbacks will see action in the first preseason game, with each expected to start a half and the non-starter playing the third quarter, but did not reveal who will open the game.
Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken said the team will use both quarterbacks, Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson, in its opening preseason matchup, but stopped short of naming the starter. He indicated that the quarterback who begins the game will play the first half and receive a two-minute drill, while the other will take over in the third quarter. Monken added that the same rotation will be applied in the following week's game against the Buffalo Bills, allowing each player a chance to lead a half and a short drive.
"One’s going to start this week, the other’s going to start next week," Monken told reporters, noting the plan to simulate two-minute situations before halftime.
The coach said the decision will be communicated to the quarterbacks after Wednesday’s practice, and that the starting offensive line will be on the field for most of the first half, though adjustments may be made based on the Bears’ defensive personnel. He emphasized the need to give both quarterbacks adequate protection to function effectively, regardless of the Bears’ lineup.
Monken reiterated that the competition remains open and that the team will assess the quarterbacks each week leading up to the regular season.