Cleveland Browns first-year head coach Todd Monken decided to start Deshaun Watson over Shedeur Sanders at the start of the season. Despite an overwhelming belief that Sanders had won the QB competition, the decision came after Watson took his frustrations out on fans in a press conference, only confounding Monken’s decision.

Through the first eight games, Watson has led Cleveland to a 5-3 record. Some might argue the 2026 record is just as much a result of the team and weapons around Watson. While he has two 300-yard games in the last two weeks, his season average is 225 yards and less than one touchdown per game.

Colorado Buffaloes fans might have been annoyed by Watson getting the start for two reasons. A belief that Sanders was given a raw deal in his rookie season and earned his shot in 2026. The only reason is the updated roster. An argument could be made that the Browns are set at the running back, wide receiver and tight end positions while completely rebuilding the offensive line in the offseason.

The problem with the Browns in the last couple of years comes down to the quarterback position. With young talent like Quinshon Judkins, Harold Fannin Jr, KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston, the belief was not that Cleveland was a pro bowl quarterback away.

The idea was they are ‘decent quarterback play’ away from competing. The argument being, that even Sanders, coming off 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns and ten interceptions last season, can provide ‘decent quarterback play’.

Early in last week’s game, Watson took a hit that included helmet-to-helmet contact. One of the league’s ATC spotters identified a concern and called down to the sidelines to have Watson evaluated for head trauma. The UNC (Unaffiliated Neurotrauma Consultant) administered a concussion evaluation, and Watson was cleared to return. Sanders stepped in and took two snaps during that evaluation.

Watson was again tested post-game and again on Monday morning. In both cases, Watson was cleared of any medical concern. Watson then reported to the Browns medical team that he was experiencing concussion-like symptoms, and he was immediately placed into the league’s concussion protocol. He will have to clear five steps to return, and most recovery time is within the window of 7 to 10 days.

On Wednesday, Sanders met with the local0 media after news broke that he could get his first start this weekend when the Browns play the Saints. Sanders was beaming as he greeted the media pool.

It should come as no shock at this point to NFL fans that Sanders does not change his approach. Every time they ask about the importance or meaning of news, he always responds the same, and this week was no different. “The same way I’ve been preparing for every week,” Sanders replied regarding his preparation.

Sanders described his rookie season as “seeing what I needed to see.” That season informed his offseason to-do list, and he worked towards improving on the aspects he needs to improve upon. He also thanked the coaching staff and general manager for giving him another shot.

It wouldn’t be a Shedeur press conference without pushing back on short-sighted questions. He was asked how he fits into the new offense. “We in like Week 7,” Sanders retorted. “Are we talking about the offensive system fitting me? We could’ve figured that out in training camp.”

Sanders recently hired an agent for the first time in his football career, leading to several questions about the timing. That came up in the press conference, and he also answered that in a predictable way. “What that got to do with this game?” Sanders asked. “I’m focused on this game, nothing else matters at this point.”

Like his hall of fame father, Shedeur has developed the ability not to say the first thing that comes to mind. While being asked about watching the Saints game tape, Shedeur began to smile. “When I smile, just know that means … something,” Sanders said as he continued smiling. He then went on to repeat that “he’s maturing." Which is not terribly dissimilar to Deion Sanders letting the Lord tell him not to say what first came to mind.

Sanders might have also reset the expectation on the relationship dynamic between him and the other quarterbacks, specifically Watson. His answers revealed a respect for Watson and what he was able to accomplish through seven games.

Cleveland travels to New Orleans to take on the Saints. Watson has four days to clear the NFL’s concussion protocol or the Browns will likely start Sanders. The league has a five-step process and an independent evaluation before Watson can be ruled active for the game on Sunday. Very few NFL players have cleared the protocol that quickly.

The Browns meet the Saints on Sunday. Kickoff will be at 1 p.m. ET on CBS.