Browns give Deshaun Watson preseason opener as Shedeur Sanders starts Week 2
The Cleveland Browns will start Deshaun Watson in their preseason game in Chicago, while rookie Shedeur Sanders will open the second preseason matchup at home, highlighting the ongoing quarterback competition.
Cleveland has scheduled Deshaun Watson to start the team's preseason opener on the road in Chicago, with rookie Shedeur Sanders slated to lead the second game at home the following week. The arrangement allows Watson to play without the immediate pressure of a home crowd, where he has faced criticism from some fans.
If Watson performs well, he could strengthen his case for the regular-season starter role. Conversely, a strong showing by Sanders in the home game could sway fan sentiment and influence the coaching staff's decision.
Both quarterbacks remain in a close contest for the starting job, and the outcome of the early preseason games may set the tone for the Browns' quarterback hierarchy heading into the 2026 season.