The Cleveland Browns are entering the 2025 offseason with a clear message: no one’s job is safe at the most important position on the field. General Manager Andrew Berry made waves on Tuesday when he announced that the Cleveland Browns starting quarterback position is officially "up for grabs." In a move that signals a true open competition, Berry confirmed that both rookie sensation Shedeur Sanders and veteran Deshaun Watson are firmly in the mix to lead the offense when the new season kicks off.
A High-Stakes Competition for the Cleveland Browns Starting Quarterback Role
During a press conference on Tuesday, Andrew Berry was transparent about the team's current depth chart under center. While many expected a clear hierarchy following the draft, the General Manager emphasized that the team is prioritizing performance over tenure or draft position. By stating the job is "up for grabs," Berry has effectively set the stage for one of the most watched training camp battles in the NFL.
The inclusion of Shedeur Sanders in this conversation is particularly noteworthy. As the Browns' high-profile rookie, Sanders brings a new level of excitement and a different skill set to the Cleveland offense. On the other side of the battle stands Deshaun Watson, the veteran whose massive contract and previous status as the unquestioned starter now face their most significant challenge since he arrived in Cleveland.
No Immediate Timeline for a Decision
Despite the external pressure to name a leader for the offense, Berry noted that the Cleveland Browns front office and coaching staff are in no rush to finalize the depth chart. The decision regarding the Cleveland Browns starting quarterback does not need to be made soon, according to the GM. This patient approach suggests that the team will use the entirety of the spring programs, training camp, and potentially the preseason to evaluate both candidates.
"The decision doesn't need to be made soon," Berry told reporters. This timeline allows the coaching staff to see how Sanders adapts to the professional game and how Watson responds to the competition. It also provides the team with flexibility as they install their offensive schemes for the upcoming campaign.
Evaluating the Contenders: Sanders and Watson
The dynamic between Sanders and Watson will be the central storyline for the Browns this summer. Shedeur Sanders enters the NFL with significant expectations, known for his poise and accuracy. His ability to process the field quickly was a hallmark of his collegiate career, and the Browns appear eager to see if those traits translate immediately to the professional level.
Deshaun Watson, meanwhile, remains a veteran presence with a proven track record of high-level play in the league, though his time in Cleveland has been marked by various challenges. By placing him in an open competition, the Browns are challenging the veteran to reclaim the form that once made him one of the league's elite passers. Berry’s comments indicate that past accolades and financial commitments will not dictate the starting lineup if the rookie provides a better chance to win.
The Path Forward for Cleveland
The Browns' decision to publicize this competition reflects a broader philosophy of meritocracy within the organization. By opening up the Cleveland Browns starting quarterback spot, Berry is signaling to the entire roster that performance is the only metric that matters. This move is expected to sharpen the focus of both players as they prepare for the rigors of the NFL season.
As the team moves toward the summer, the focus will remain on how these two quarterbacks split reps and how the locker room responds to the competition. For now, the Cleveland Browns are content to let the process play out on the field, ensuring that whoever takes the first snap in Week 1 has earned it through direct competition.
- Andrew Berry confirms the QB job is an open competition.
- Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson are the primary candidates.
- No immediate deadline has been set for naming the starter.
- The decision will be based on performance throughout the offseason and preseason.
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