Shedeur Sanders Responds to Uncertain Quarterback Outlook in Cleveland.

New Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken made it clear during his introductory press conference that the team has not yet settled on a starting quarterback for the upcoming season. When asked about the situation, Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders expressed that the uncertainty did not come as a surprise. Speaking on Up and Adams on FanDuel TV, Sanders explained that competition is part of life in the NFL and something he fully expects. He emphasized that earning trust—both from the organization and himself—is a daily responsibility. Sanders noted that his focus remains on steady improvement rather than external opinions. Sanders, 23, outlined his approach to the offseason as goal-oriented, stressing the importance of incremental progress. He explained that completing smaller objectives helps create long-term success, adding that controlling personal preparation is the most important factor in his development. Entering the 2026 season, Cleveland has three quarterbacks under contract: Sanders, fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel, and veteran Deshaun Watson. Watson missed the entire 2025 season while recovering from a second torn Achilles and carries a massive salary cap figure in the final year of his fully guaranteed contract.

Neither Sanders nor Gabriel found consistent success during their rookie campaigns. Gabriel finished with a 1–5 record and ranked near the bottom of the league in passer rating. Sanders performed slightly better in the win column at 3–4 but posted one of the lowest passer ratings among qualifying quarterbacks.

Monken’s decision to keep the quarterback competition open appears tied to both performance concerns and financial realities. While he declined to name a favorite, Monken said his evaluation will begin with leadership qualities and mental toughness. He emphasized that the quarterback must command the locker room and perform in high-pressure moments, such as late-game situations. Though no starter has been named, Monken expressed enthusiasm about working with the quarterbacks currently on the roster and said he looks forward to beginning the evaluation process once offseason activities begin.