Browns Noncommittal on Watson as 2026 Starter; QB Due $46M Guaranteed

The Cleveland Browns' front office is not committing to Deshaun Watson as the starting quarterback for the 2026 season, with Watson, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel expected to compete. Watson, who hasn't played since 2023 due to an Achilles injury, is due $46 million guaranteed this season, whether he plays or not. This guaranteed salary gives the Browns motivation to keep him on the roster, potentially limiting their free-agent QB options. His $230M fully-guaranteed deal was also central to an NFL collusion grievance.