Cleveland Browns Name Deshaun Watson Starting QB for 2026 Opener

The Cleveland Browns have named Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback for the 2026 regular-season opener, a decision announced on Monday, August 24, just two days after Watson was booed by home fans during a preseason loss. The choice concludes a competition with Shedeur Sanders and comes despite Watson's poor performance and critical postgame comments about the fan reception. Head coach Todd Monken informed the team of the decision on Monday morning. The announcement followed the Browns' 31-7 preseason defeat to the Buffalo Bills on Saturday, August 22, at Huntington Bank Field.