Browns predicted to make franchise-altering move after 2026 season

"When you have four quarterbacks entering an open competition, you don't have a clear starter, and Deshaun Watson is reportedly emerging as the early offseason front‑runner, which should be a major concern for the Cleveland Browns," Knox explained.

As Knox mentioned, it has to be majorly concerning if Watson is legitimately considered your best quarterback option in the year 2026. It's not hard to imagine the Browns struggling mightily in 2026, no matter who is playing quarterback.

Assuming the Browns do struggle again next season, they should have plenty of options in the draft. Arch Manning, Dante Moore, C.J. Carr are just some of the quarterbacks expected to go early in 2027.

Who will win the Browns' QB1 job in 2026?

As mentioned above, Watson is currently seen as the favorite to land the job in 2026. However, Watson hasn't seen the field since 2024, and his performance wasn't exactly that impressive. It's been a very long time since Watson looked like a Pro Bowler, both due to off-field reasons and injuries.

Sanders had an ugly stat line as a rookie, but there could be some hope that the Colorado product could improve with a better supporting cast. The Browns used two early draft picks on wide receivers, and also drafted tackle Spencer Fano in the first round to hopefully improve their offensive line.

Still, no matter who wins the job, it's hard to have much confidence in the team going forward until they secure a franchise passer.

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