The Cleveland Browns face a big offseason decision at quarterback as they search for a new head coach. Alongside GM Andrew Berry and the front office, the team will need to decide who leads the offense in 2026.
The Browns already have Dillon Gabriel, Shedeur Sanders, and Deshaun Watson on the roster. Watson is likely done in Cleveland, and Gabriel hasn’t shown enough to be an NFL starter. Sanders showed some potential but struggled at times this past season.
An NFC executive told ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler that Sanders probably won’t be the Browns’ top option next season. “I just don’t think they go into the season with Shedeur as their starter,” the exec said. “And getting the right quarterback in the draft isn’t a guarantee based on where they pick.”
Cleveland may not find a ready-made replacement in the draft, as options beyond top prospects like Fernando Mendoza are limited. That makes free agency an attractive route. Malik Willis is seen as the top option, and Daniel Jones, if he becomes available, could also be a candidate.
Even with Sanders showing flashes, the low points of his 2025 season and the arrival of a new head coach make it unlikely he will start in 2026. The Browns appear ready to explore other options to lead their offense next year.
