Browns Place Shedeur Sanders at Starting Quarterback

Shedeur Sanders will make his first start of the 2026 season when the Cleveland Browns face the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.

Head coach Todd Monken confirmed the decision on Friday. The move comes as Deshaun Watson remains in the concussion protocol and is listed as questionable for the matchup.

Watson self-reported symptoms on Tuesday morning. Medical staff will determine if he is cleared to play or serve as the backup. Monken has not yet finalized the backup quarterback decision.

Sanders took all starting reps during this week's practice sessions. He was selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. As a rookie last season, he started seven games. He completed 56.6 percent of his passes for 1,400 yards. He threw seven touchdowns and ten interceptions in those contests. The Browns went 3-4 when he started.

This season, Sanders has attempted only three passes in spot appearances across two games. He split reps with the first offense during training camp. Monken cited Sanders' improved footwork and mechanics as reasons for the change. The coach also noted Sanders' increased urgency in working through protections.

"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.

Dillon Gabriel is a potential backup. He returned from injured reserve last week and served as the emergency quarterback in Week 8. Rookie Taylen Green, a sixth-round pick, will return to the emergency quarterback role for the first seven games while Watson is sidelined.