Monken keeps Browns QB competition open post-minicamp
Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken stated the quarterback competition remains open after the team's three-day voluntary minicamp. Monken told Cleveland radio station 92.3 The Fan that it is premature to name a starter. He emphasized letting the competition play out while giving all quarterbacks opportunities.
The Browns return Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel for the 2026 season. Sanders assumed the starting role in Week 12 last season and held it after two additional starts. Watson remained on the physically unable to perform list despite the opening of his 21-day practice window in December, with Gabriel shifting to backup.
During the media-open practice at minicamp on April 21, 2026, Watson received the most reps in most drills, though Monken noted Sanders was slated for more overall. The Browns went 5-12 last season and finished with one of the NFL's more crowded quarterback rooms. General manager Andrew Berry said at the February NFL Scouting Combine that no rush exists to decide a starter, with all players expected to compete.
The Browns begin organized team activities in mid-May, followed by mandatory minicamp in June and training camp in July. Monken, hired in January, plans a new offensive system and awaits one quarterback to emerge. The team selected Taylen Green in the sixth round of last week's NFL Draft.
