The Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation remains a focal point of training camp, with former NFL executive Mike Tannenbaum recently weighing in on the team's roster strategy. Speaking on the Pat McAfee Show, Tannenbaum argued that the organization needs to be transparent about its future, suggesting that the team should prioritize evaluating rookie Shedeur Sanders as a potential starter.
Tannenbaum emphasized that a general manager's duty includes recognizing when to move on, stating that even if a player could "walk on water and lead them to a Super Bowl," the team is not planning to extend Deshaun Watson. He specifically challenged Todd Monken to determine the true potential of Sanders, who was selected by the Browns with the No. 144 pick in the 2025 NFL draft.
The scrutiny surrounding Watson stems from his limited availability since signing a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract in March 2022. Throughout his tenure in Cleveland, Watson has appeared in only 19 games. His career has been significantly impacted by a ruptured right Achilles tendon suffered during Week 7 of the 2024 season, followed by a re-rupture of the same tendon in January 2025, which has kept him sidelined.
During his rookie season, Sanders played in eight games, including seven starts. He completed 120 of 212 pass attempts for a 56.6% completion rate, recording 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. While Sanders served as the starting quarterback toward the end of the previous season, his role for the 2026 campaign remains officially designated as the backup to Watson.
The Browns have scheduled three preseason games to finalize their preparations before the 2026 regular season. The team will face the Chicago Bears on August 15 at 1 p.m. ET, followed by a home game against the Buffalo Bills on August 22 at 1 p.m. ET, and a final preseason matchup against the New England Patriots on August 27 at 8 p.m. ET.
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