The omnipresent debate about the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation shifted into high gear more than four months before the 2026 NFL season opener.

New Browns head coach Todd Monken can be excused for wanting to pick a quarterback and move on to other items.

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On Friday, May 1, Monken addressed the debate just two days after a report indicated veteran Deshaun Watson has an early lead in the competition.

Ken Carman of “The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima” asked Monken if he’d like to have a starter named by training camp.

“I would love to have that,” Monken said. “I’m not there yet, so I can’t say that. We’ve been on the field three practices, which was awesome to get out there with our players.”

Still seeking an answer at QB

Cleveland has struggled to find a quarterback since acquiring Watson from the Houston Texans in 2022. The Browns handed Watson a guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract.

Between a disciplinary suspension and injuries to his shoulder and Achilles, Watson has played just 19 games with for Cleveland. When on the field, he turned in an 80.7 quarterback rating, well below the 104.5 he recorded as a Texan.

Rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel both saw considerable playing time during the Browns’ 5-12 season in 2025. Sanders went 3-4 as a starter to finish the season and earned a Pro Bowl nod despite throwing more interceptions (10) than touchdown passes (seven).

Cleveland also selected former Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green in the sixth round of this year’s draft.

Monken seemed to indicate he will choose a de facto starter during OTAs and mandatory minicamp, which ends June 11. Training camp opens July 25.

“They’re all external to me,” Monken said of the quarterbacks. “There’s only so many reps you get; you’ve got to start to target towards who’s going to start opening day. Now that can still change. That can change, even if somebody’s getting two-thirds of the reps, and someone’s getting one-third of the reps because you’re still going to play preseason games.”

Watson will get first shot

Look for Watson to receive the first opportunity to nail down the Browns’ quarterback job. Monken, a first-time head coach, will lean on Watson’s experience and upside. Plus, Cleveland would love to get at least some useful production for the money they’ve committed to the 30-year-old.

Sanders will be first man up should Watson falter again.