Browns Give Blunt Reason for Backing Watson Over Shedeur Sanders

Cleveland Browns coach Todd Monken explained on The Pivot podcast that the coaching staff decided to start quarterback Deshaun Watson over Shedeur Sanders because they saw a higher ceiling from the veteran at his top end. Monken officially named Watson the starting quarterback on August 24 following an extensive offseason evaluation, keeping rookie Sanders in a backup role.

Monken also noted that Cleveland fan sentiment rapidly shifted from boos to cheers after Watson led a 27-24 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 4. The Browns improved to 4-2 and first place in the AFC North after a 13-10 win against the Baltimore Ravens, which featured Watson's fourth late go-ahead scoring drive of the season.