Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson sent an urgent message on Browns’ 2027 NFL draft plans

“Watson, the lightning rod former Pro Bowler, has reached the final year of his controversial contract. Sanders is merely a former fifth-rounder despite the ability he showcased in college and flashed as a rookie. They’re now currently locked in a battle for the QB1 job, Watson perhaps pulling ahead even as new coach Todd Monken remains mum. Regardless, given the amount of talent GM Andrew Berry has provided this year, both in terms of a radically revamped offensive line and new wideouts in the draft – KC Concepcion (Round 1), Denzel Boston (Round 2) – one of these QBs better have a standout season if they’re going to dissuade Berry from taking another passer in the 2027 draft,” Davis wrote.

Arch Manning has been on the Browns’ radar

Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has a well-documented relationship with the entire Manning family, leading many to believe in July 2025 that Cleveland was eyeing Arch a year in advance. Manning never declared for the draft this year, opting to return to Austin for a fourth season in 2026 with a reinforced receiving corps.

Haslam predicted Manning as a 2027 NFL draft prospect, saying, "I think if you know the Manning family, I would bet that -- and I don't know Arch at all -- I would bet he stays in college two years. So, I don't even really think that's worth discussing."

It’s not believable that Haslam hasn’t met Manning since, and it’s probable that he knew that Arch was going to stay in Texas for the 2025 and 2026 seasons back when he was forced to downplay the relationship last summer.

Manning should be considered a strong possibility for the Browns in 2027, since starting Sanders and/or Watson seemingly signifies a willingness to tank this coming season.