Browns decide between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders for QB1 spot: Announcement on Monday 24th

The Cleveland Browns are finally preparing to make their quarterback decision, but what appeared to be a straightforward competition has turned into one of the most complicated choices of the preseason.

Head coach Todd Monken is expected to announce whether Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders will start the regular season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday, August 24.

ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported that Cleveland plans to settle the competition after months of evaluating both quarterbacks.

“Quick update: Browns currently expect to settle on a starting QB Monday,” Fowler said.

Watson entered training camp viewed as the favorite after returning from an Achilles injury that kept him sidelined for most of the previous season.

However, the veteran’s position became more uncertain after Cleveland’s preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills , when he was met with loud boos from fans at Huntington Bank Field.

Watson completed 5 of 12 passes for 36 yards and threw an interception during his appearance, then expressed frustration with the reaction afterward.

“I think the whole world knows it has nothing to do about the performance,” Watson said. “It’s a little bit more personal than that. So, I think it’s a disrespectful thing.”

The comments created another layer of attention around a quarterback battle that had already featured questions about Watson ’s form, contract and long-term future in Cleveland.

Shedeur Sanders backs Watson

While Sanders is competing directly with Watson for the starting job, the rookie made it clear he didn't agree with the treatment his teammate received from Browns fans.

“I do not appreciate that at all,” Sanders said. “Regardless of competition, we’re all human beings.”

The former Colorado quarterback explained that supporting the franchise means respecting everyone involved, regardless of outside opinions.

“I don’t really do things to humans I wouldn’t want done to me,” Sanders continued.

Sanders added: “For all the fans, we appreciate y’all showing up and everything. However you feel about the situation with Deshaun, still, I think it’s more about a bigger purpose. Just respect.”

The rookie has remained competitive throughout the preseason, completing 15 of 22 passes for 153 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions through two games.

Watson has completed 16 of 27 attempts for 162 yards with one interception during the exhibition schedule, while also losing a fumble after being sacked.

Monken weighs final factors before Browns reveal

Monken acknowledged that the decision was close and said the coaching staff still had details to evaluate before making the announcement.

“I still have a few things to weigh out,” Monken said. “But I’m not going to get into that. But we anticipate naming the starter tomorrow.”

Despite the recent controversy, Monken defended Watson ’s approach since joining the Browns and praised the quarterback’s effort during his comeback.

“I haven’t gotten any of that from him since I’ve been here,” Monken said when asked about Watson’s commitment to Cleveland.

“All I’ve seen from him is a player that’s worked awfully hard to get back to where he is now and given himself a chance to compete at the highest level.”

Watson ’s time in Cleveland has been marked by injuries and limited availability since signing a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract in 2022. He has played only 19 games for the Browns , making the upcoming decision even more significant.

Cleveland’s opener against Jacksonville is less than three weeks away, and whoever wins the job will inherit the responsibility of leading a team hoping to compete in the AFC North.