Shedeur Sanders didn’t have the best outing against the Chicago Bears in the Cleveland Browns’ preseason opener. The game ended with the Bears defeating the Browns 34-10. While Sanders showed some encouraging signs, he completed just 6 of 11 passes for 79 yards, and threw a disappointing interception he would like to forget as soon as possible.
While Sanders struggled to get going, Deshaun Watson looked more at home, despite being away from the game for nearly two years after tearing his right Achilles Tendon in the Week 7 of the 2024 NFL season. Watson looked visibly confident in the pocket, completing 11 of 15 passes for 126 yards, and leading the Browns on two scoring drives.
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With the Browns’ quarterback battle entering its final stage, the next preseason game against the Buffalo Bills is being viewed as a make-or-break opportunity for the duo. While Watson appears to have the edge, Sanders is capable of making a comeback with a highlight performance against the Bills.
However, Sanders has received some bad news ahead of the Bills game. Monken has decided to rest some veteran starters for the Browns’ second preseason game. Spencer Fano and Denzel Boston will play, though. This puts Sanders at a disadvantage, as Watson operated with the first-team starters against the Bears.
This decision comes at a really crucial juncture, as Monken has made significant announcement before the game. In an interview with broadcaster Andrew Siciliano, the Browns head coach gave a major update on the QB battle. Monken said, “I don’t anticipate the quarterback decision going past early of next week.”
The Browns will play the New England Patriots in their final preseason game on Thursday, August 27, after their game against the Bills. With Monken expected to make the quarterback decision early next week, the Bills game could be Sanders’ last meaningful opportunity to influence the battle. He needs to dig deep and put together a performance that gives Monken something to think about.
