Browns bold predictions for 2026 NFL season: How many games will Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders start?

Cleveland’s 2026 quarterback plan is already shaping up as a timed storyline: Deshaun Watson is projected to start five games before Shedeur Sanders takes over for the rest of the season. The Browns’ rebuild hinges on how quickly Todd Monken’s new, up-tempo passing identity can stabilize the offense. Monken inherited a roster overhaul that included reshaping the receiving corps around Jerry Jeudy, adding veteran offensive line pieces like Elgton Jenkins and Zion Johnson, and building a refreshed defensive core with Jared Verse, Mason Graham and Carson Schwesinger. The finalized roster keeps Watson, Sanders and Taylen Green, while Dillon Gabriel is on injured reserve with a designation to return. Prediction one: Watson starts the opener but is replaced by early October if the early offense can’t deliver. Prediction two: Sanders then begins the final 12 contests.