Monken’s aim is to identify a quarterback who can distinguish himself as the season progresses. Sanders, who went 3-4 in those seven appearances, remains the focal point, but the club will also evaluate Gabriel, the 2025 third-round pick, and Watson, who is in the final year of a high-profile, fully guaranteed contract.
Watson’s injury absence last season and his career arc with the Browns complicate the decision. He’s slated to compete for the job alongside Sanders and Gabriel as Monken oversees an open QB competition during the offseason program.
Sanders showed promise as a playmaker, tapping into the potential that attracted the Browns to draft him in the fifth round. He’ll be under close watch as Monken assesses consistency, leadership, and growth from all three signal-callers.
Gabriel offered a strong measure of growth in his initial NFL opportunities, while Watson’s proven talent remains a factor, even as he works to recapture form and health. Monken has indicated he plans to let the competition unfold and evaluate each quarterback’s progression over time.
As the team prepares for training camp and the season ahead, all eyes will be on which quarterback can earn the Week 1 starting nod and sustain it through the opening months of Monken’s tenure in Cleveland.
