NFL free agency 2026: Why Deshaun Watson could force the Browns to sit out the free-agent QB carousel

Key Highlights

• Returning to practice requires far less agility and command than live game play, of course, but Watson’s performance there caught the attention of some in the building. Watson is due $46 million guaranteed this season whether or not he plays, which gives the Browns motivation to keep him on the roster.
• Add in a 2027 quarterback draft class that’s much stronger than the 2026 group, and there’s reason for the Browns to eschew costly quarterbacks this offseason. Monken described the position as an “open competition,” lauding Sanders’ “elite playmaking ability” while also saying the 2024 fifth-round pick has “a ways to go” like most players do coming off their rookie years.“Why wouldn't it be an open competition?" Monken said at the combine.
• “I don't mean that saying it harshly, but I don't think there's enough on film over the last couple years, one way or the other, to say, ‘Boy, we have our starter at quarterback yet.’ Whether internally or externally.”AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAn open competition could favor Watson, whose athletic ceiling and processing ceiling each surpass those of Sanders, league talent evaluators say.
• Serious injuries, as well as suspension for allegations of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct, have sidelined Watson in recent years.
• Watson last played a full season in 2020, when he led the league with 4,823 passing yards.