Watson Returns as Browns’ Quarterback Battle Takes Shape in Preseason Loss.

CHICAGO — The Cleveland Browns may have walked away from their preseason opener with a 34-10 loss to the Chicago Bears, but much of the attention remained on the competition at quarterback between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. Watson made his long-awaited return to game action Saturday, appearing for the first time since October 2024. The veteran quarterback completed 11 of 15 passes for 126 yards and helped Cleveland build an early 10-0 advantage with two scoring drives. His afternoon was not without mistakes. Watson lost a fumble after being sacked in the second quarter, but his ability to move the offense provided Cleveland with an early look at what he can bring after nearly two years away from the field. Watson has faced a difficult road back to football. A shoulder injury ended his 2023 season, and his comeback was later complicated by two Achilles ruptures. Saturday gave him an opportunity to finally experience live contact again and operate Cleveland’s offense in a game setting. One of Watson’s early weapons was rookie wide receiver KC Concepcion. The first-round pick scored Cleveland’s only touchdown on a 14-yard run to begin the second quarter. Concepcion also caught three passes for 27 yards, giving the Browns another encouraging performance from one of their newest offensive pieces. While Watson helped Cleveland start quickly, Sanders experienced a more uneven afternoon. Entering during the second half, Sanders completed 6 of 11 passes for 79 yards. His biggest mistake came early in the fourth quarter when Bears defensive back Beanie Bishop Jr. intercepted an overthrown pass intended for Malachi Corley. Sanders acknowledged afterward that he believed he made the correct read but failed to execute the throw. The second-year quarterback started seven games as a rookie in 2025 and is now competing with Watson for Cleveland’s starting position under first-year head coach Todd Monken. The competition is far from settled. Monken plans to give Sanders the start when Cleveland hosts Buffalo in its second preseason game. Watson is expected to take over in the second half, while both quarterbacks will receive starting opportunities during a joint practice with the Bills.

Chicago, meanwhile, rested starting quarterback Caleb Williams along with several other starters. Tyson Bagent handled the first half and completed 13 of 22 passes for 169 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Veteran Case Keenum helped the Bears pull away in the second half, completing 9 of 10 passes for 151 yards and two touchdowns. Chicago wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El also received an opportunity to call plays during the second half. Bishop was one of Chicago’s defensive standouts, recording two interceptions. In addition to picking off Sanders, he intercepted Cleveland quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who completed 5 of 8 passes for 23 yards while finishing the game. Despite the lopsided final score, Cleveland’s biggest storyline remains its quarterback competition. Watson showed signs that he can still command the offense after his extended absence, while Sanders will have an opportunity to respond when he takes the opening snaps against Buffalo.

The next week could provide an even clearer picture for Monken as he evaluates both quarterbacks through joint practices and Cleveland’s second preseason matchup.

The Browns will host the Buffalo Bills next Saturday, while the Bears travel to Cincinnati to face the Bengals.