3 Ways Shedeur Sanders Benefits if Deshaun Watson Starts For Browns

The Cleveland Browns are a month and a half away from deciding who between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson will start Week 1 of the 2026 season.

Those two quarterbacks are firmly in the lead of the franchise’s four-way battle at their practice facilities. But recently, there have been claims that the Colorado Buffaloes star is on the verge of losing the battle.

The franchise and its top personnel have not commented on this numerous times, stating clearly that there is no clear winner at this point.

But even then, there are claims that Watson has moved to the front of the pack, and that Shedeur Sanders has six weeks to reclaim his spot before the Browns make it official.

Those claims have led to some angry reactions from both fans and Shilo Sanders, with his controversial comments about Cleveland.com reporter Mary Kay Cabot dominating headlines.

Apart from the noise, it is clear that the Browns are not ready to hand the reins of the team they have built through free agency and the draft unless the sophomore proves he is ready.

Last season was a revelation. But the franchise wants to take the next step in its process of becoming competitive. In that regard, and a few more reasons, it seems it is better for Shedeur Sanders if his teammate starts the season.

Shedeur Sanders can learn as Deshaun Watson goes through his paces

There is no denying the fact that Deshaun Watson is no longer the three-time Pro Bowler who dazzled the league a few years ago. Instead, many do not expect anything meaningful from him, especially after his disastrous past campaigns for the Browns.

However, Todd Monken believes he could return the Clemson alum to his past glory days. Even if a fraction of that happens, the head coach will be vindicated by his decision.

During this period, Shedeur Sanders will get the opportunity to sit back and learn. Even though he had veteran Joe Flacco to learn from last year, the second-oldest signal-caller in the league did not win many games.

Winning is important, and if Watson can get them there, it might not be the best situation for the 24-year-old. But he will be able to gain valuable knowledge on what it takes to win in the NFL.

Last season, Shedeur Sanders led the Browns to an impressive 3-4 record. But everyone knows that under a new coach, the slate is generally wiped clean.

Shedeur Sanders can use those learnings to build conversations with his head coach

No matter how long Sanders stays on the sidelines, anything and everything he learns can help him build a relationship with his head coach.

That is how he was able to flip the initially awkward moments with Kevin Stefanski to where the now Atlanta Falcons coach claimed that he loved coaching his former rookie.

Sanders’ relationship with Todd Monken has gotten off to a decent start, but nothing works better than having conversations about football. If the Texas native can use his observations to strike up conversations with his head coach, they can work towards not only improving the Browns’ offense but also the QB’s development.

Former players have made it clear that Sanders can win the starting quarterback role once he builds trust. That may be with his teammates, his coaches, and even the organization’s decision makers, building that confidence is crucial.

If he is on the sidelines, the best way he can build that relationship is by doing things a team likes to hear about, which is how to improve their game.

If Deshaun Watson fails, it will be time for Shedeur Sanders to shine

Once Deshaun Watson starts for the Cleveland Browns, Todd Monken will probably give him a few games to get settled with the first-team offense.

Early struggles might not be a spot of worry, as most of the offensive line is new, and so is the new system, and the rest of the offense. Anyone can have growing pains with that.

But if the 30-year-old continues to struggle beyond the grace period, it will be time for Sanders to shine. By then, the fifth-round pick will have studied the game and also prepared himself to take command of that offense.

Had he started in Watson’s place and then struggled, the entire football world would be quick to label him a failure. Disappointment from that could also damage his confidence.

Therefore, it is better for his long-term future if the Cleveland Browns go ahead with their expensive quarterback before handing it over to the younger signal-caller.

Also Read:

• Mike Vrabel Gets Support From Drake Maye & Patriots’ Players Amidst Cheating Scandal
• Mike Vrabel Getting a Standing Ovation From Patriots Season Ticket Holders Irks Fans – “Love Themselves Some Cheaters”