As the Cleveland Browns gear up for their 2026 season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, September 13, the quarterback room dynamics have come into sharp focus. Head coach Todd Monken confirmed during his Wednesday press conference that rookie Shedeur Sanders is in line to serve as the primary backup to starter Deshaun Watson. This decision, while expected, carries significant weight given Watson's recent injury history and inconsistent performances, making the backup role one of the most scrutinized positions on the roster.
The Backup Battle: Sanders vs. Green
Monken had earlier sparked speculation by suggesting the team might utilize sixth-round rookie Taylen Green in specific packages, while also acknowledging the logistical challenge of keeping three quarterbacks active on game day. However, when asked directly if Sanders would be the No. 2 against Jacksonville, Monken responded succinctly: "I do." This clarification puts to rest any notion that Green has leapfrogged Sanders on the depth chart, at least for now. Green, drafted out of Arkansas, remains a developmental project, while Sanders has a year of NFL experience under his belt.
During his rookie season in 2025, Sanders appeared in eight games with seven starts, completing 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards, with seven touchdowns against 10 interceptions. Those numbers reflect the struggles of a young quarterback thrust into action, but they also provide a foundation for growth. As the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk notes, Sanders' experience as a starter gives him a distinct edge over Green when it comes to stepping into a high-pressure situation mid-game.
Why the Backup Role Matters in Cleveland
The spotlight on the backup quarterback position is nothing new in Cleveland, where Watson's tenure has been marred by injuries and underperformance. Since signing his record-breaking contract, Watson has missed significant time due to shoulder and Achilles issues, and his on-field production has failed to meet expectations. The Browns' front office has invested heavily in the quarterback room, but the reality is that Sanders could see meaningful snaps sooner rather than later, especially if Watson's struggles continue or injuries resurface.
As highlighted on Vulius, the Browns' decision to keep Sanders as the primary backup signals confidence in his development, despite his rocky rookie numbers. Sanders, known for his poise and athleticism, has reportedly made strides in training camp, impressing coaches with his decision-making and arm strength. For a team with playoff aspirations, having a capable backup is not a luxury but a necessity.
Looking Ahead to Jacksonville
The Browns will face the Jaguars at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, a game that could set the tone for their season. While the focus will be on Watson's performance, the readiness of Sanders looms large. If the game gets out of hand or Watson suffers an injury, the Browns will need Sanders to be prepared to lead the offense. Monken's confirmation provides clarity, but it also raises the stakes for Sanders, who must be ready to step into the spotlight at any moment.
For now, the Browns are banking on Watson to rebound and stay healthy, but the safety net of a more experienced backup in Sanders offers a measure of reassurance. As the season unfolds, the quarterback situation in Cleveland will remain a storyline to watch, with Sanders poised to make an impact whether as a backup or, potentially, as the starter of the future.
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