ShedeurSanders

News: 2 days agoSanders will open the season as the Browns' backup quarterback after the team named Deshaun Watson its starter Monday, multiple sources tell NFL reporter Jordan Schultz.

Spin: Sanders and Watson had been battling for the job since the start of the offseason program and alternated starts in the Browns' first two preseason tilts. Between losses to the Bears and Bills, Sanders completed 15 of 22 attempts for 153 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. While Watson didn't fare dramatically better than Sanders in the two exhibition games, his superior performance during camp practices in addition to his greater NFL experience and pricey contract were likely major factors in him emerging as the victor in the job battle. Watson is unlikely to head into Week 1 with a long leash, however, and Sanders should have a good chance at making starts in 2026 if the Browns limp out to a poor start to the season.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Sanders enters his second NFL season set to compete with Deshaun Watson for the Browns' starting quarterback gig. Sanders made eight appearances during his rookie season and wasn't overly productive, scoring eight all-purpose touchdowns, throwing 10 interceptions and completing 57% of his passes. The fifth-round pick produced one weekly fantasy finish better than 18th, though it was an impressive 364-yard passing game with four total touchdowns (33.5 points). Sanders added some value with his legs, including 20-plus yards in five straight games to end the season. The 24-year-old remains a wild card, and that's enough to make him worthy of late-round consideration in superflex leagues.