Source: Browns Returning to Deshaun Watson as QB1 Despite Shedeur Sanders’ Strong Fill-In Start

The Cleveland Browns are reportedly preparing to return to Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback for Week 10, despite an impressive performance from rookie Shedeur Sanders in Sunday’s overtime defeat against the New Orleans Saints.

A source told ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on Monday that Cleveland plans to start Watson against the Houston Texans. The reported decision comes after Sanders delivered one of his strongest performances of the season, throwing for 297 yards and two touchdowns while giving the Browns a chance to win on the road.

Sanders stepped into the starting role because Watson had not completed concussion protocol in time for Sunday’s game. Watson was officially inactive after clearing the protocol only on Saturday.

Browns Plan to Start Deshaun Watson Against Texans

Despite Sanders’ productive outing, the Browns appear set to return to Watson as their QB1 for the upcoming matchup against Houston.

Watson had led Cleveland to a 5-3 record before Sunday’s game, playing a significant role in the team’s ability to win close contests. He recorded an NFL-high five game-winning drives during that stretch.

However, his individual efficiency has been a concern. Entering Week 9, Watson had a 40.9 QBR, ranking 28th among 30 qualifying quarterbacks. His performance statistics have therefore presented a more complicated picture than the team’s overall record.

The decision to return to Watson means Sanders’ impressive performance may not be enough to earn him another start immediately. Cleveland’s coaching staff appears prepared to continue with its original quarterback plan.

Shedeur Sanders Delivers Strong Performance Against Saints

Sanders made the most of his opportunity against New Orleans, completing 19 of 31 pass attempts for 297 yards and two touchdown passes.

Although he started slowly, the second-year quarterback found his rhythm after halftime and helped Cleveland take control of the game during the fourth quarter.

His performance included two major completions of at least 60 yards. First, Sanders connected with rookie wide receiver Denzel Boston on a 60-yard pass. He then delivered a 64-yard touchdown pass to fellow rookie wide receiver KC Concepcion, giving the Browns a 13-9 lead late in the fourth quarter.

Those two explosive throws were particularly notable because they doubled the number of 60-yard completions Watson had recorded during his first eight games.

Sanders also recorded a QBR of 39 against the Saints, his second-highest mark in a game during his career.

Sanders Leads Late Comeback to Force Overtime

Sanders’ contribution was not limited to his two long touchdown-producing plays. He also helped the Browns put together a late scoring drive that resulted in a field goal and sent the game into overtime.

Cleveland continued to fight in the extra period, with Sanders connecting with tight end Harold Fannin Jr. on a 39-yard touchdown pass late in overtime.

The touchdown gave the Browns another opportunity to secure victory. However, the team attempted a two-point conversion to win the game, and Sanders’ final pass fell incomplete.

The Browns ultimately suffered a narrow 23-22 overtime defeat. Despite the result, Sanders demonstrated his ability to make big plays, move the offence downfield and keep his team competitive in a difficult road game.

Todd Monken Praises Sanders but Avoids Quarterback Decision

After the game, Browns head coach Todd Monken expressed pride in Sanders’ performance but avoided making any commitment about the quarterback situation for Week 10.

When asked whether Sanders had done enough to earn another start, Monken declined to discuss the decision so soon after the game.

“How long has it been? Thirty minutes since the game ended? I’m not getting into quarterback. If we want to talk about Shedeur, we can talk about Shedeur,” Monken said.

Monken’s comments recognised Sanders’ contribution without confirming whether the young quarterback would remain in the starting lineup. The coach’s response left the immediate quarterback discussion open following the Saints game.

The subsequent report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, however, indicated that Cleveland intends to return to Watson for its next matchup.

Deshaun Watson’s Experience Versus Sanders’ Momentum

The Browns now face an important decision involving two quarterbacks with different circumstances. Watson has experience as the team’s established starter and helped Cleveland reach a 5-3 record before his absence.

His five winning drives demonstrate his ability to deliver in important situations, although his 40.9 QBR entering Week 9 highlights concerns about his overall efficiency.

Sanders, meanwhile, has shown that he can provide an explosive passing option when given an opportunity. His 297 passing yards against New Orleans, two touchdown passes and late-game contributions have added another layer to Cleveland’s quarterback discussion.

His ability to connect on two passes of 60-plus yards was particularly encouraging for an offence that needs consistent big-play production.

Nevertheless, one strong performance does not automatically change the team’s established plans. The reported decision to start Watson suggests the Browns are prioritising continuity with their original quarterback arrangement rather than making an immediate change after Sanders’ performance.

What the Browns’ Quarterback Decision Means for Week 10

The Browns are scheduled to face the Houston Texans in Week 10, with Watson expected to return to the starting role, according to the report.

Sanders’ performance against the Saints has nevertheless given Cleveland another encouraging option at quarterback. His ability to produce explosive plays and lead late scoring drives could remain important as the team evaluates its offensive direction.

For Watson, the upcoming game represents an opportunity to return after his concussion-related absence and continue leading a Browns team that has managed a winning record through its first eight games.

The immediate question is whether he can maintain the team’s results while improving the efficiency reflected in his earlier QBR numbers. For Sanders, the challenge will be to build on his strong showing and remain prepared for another opportunity.

Final Takeaway

The Cleveland Browns appear ready to return to Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback against the Houston Texans in Week 10, despite Shedeur Sanders’ impressive performance in the 23-22 overtime loss to New Orleans.

Sanders completed 19 of 31 passes for 297 yards and two touchdowns, producing several explosive plays and helping Cleveland force overtime. His performance earned praise from Todd Monken, but the coach initially avoided confirming the team’s next quarterback decision.

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Watson is expected to reclaim the QB1 position. The decision keeps Cleveland’s original quarterback plan in place while leaving Sanders’ strong performance as an encouraging development for the organisation.