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ArticleWhy did the Browns name Deshaun Watson starter? Todd Monken explains
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We felt over the course of training camp and the offseason that (Watson) was ahead of Shedeur. Took in the full body of work over the course of offseason to training camp to the games to joint practice, and ultimately felt like, to start the season on the road, Deshaun gave us the best chance to move the ball and score points.
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Watson named Browns starter for 2026; Monken cites road schedule and ability to move ball.

Named Cleveland Browns starting quarterback for 2026 season; head coach Todd Monken stated Watson is ahead of backup Shedeur Sanders and will not have a short leash, with the team not anticipating week-to-week changes at the position. Monken emphasized Watson's ability to 'score points and move the ball' and pointed to the Browns' road-heavy early schedule (Jacksonville, Tampa Bay, then Carolina at home in Week 3) as a factor in the decision. Monken said 'Ultimately we expect him to play well or we wouldn't be starting him.' Watson has not started since 2024 after rupturing and re-rupturing his Achilles tendon.

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