What Browns’ Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson said about working together during offseason
The Cleveland Browns may have a fierce quarterback competition brewing. However, Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders are making it clear that collaboration and not rivalry has defined their approach entering the 2026 season. Both quarterbacks pointed to the player-led offseason throwing sessions in Miami as a key reason the offense has looked more cohesive during the early stages of camp.
Sanders emphasized that every opportunity to work alongside his teammates helped establish timing and trust.
#Browns Shedeur Sanders on how offseason work in Miami with Deshaun Watson and receivers has carried over in early days of camp: pic.twitter.com/Hfqb73mQsd
— Ashley Bastock (@AshleyBastock42) August 1, 2026
“Yeah, any rep at any point in time is extremely important,” Sanders said. “Even the guys that weren’t able to make it. We talk about different things in the building and we work, have to practice some things. So every rep that we able to get with our guys truly makes a difference and truly builds that trust and connection.”
Watson echoed those sentiments, stressing that the benefits extended well beyond football.
“Carrying over the relationship-building not just on the field but off the field,” Watson said. “Just being around each other, it has been great. You could see the chemistry, the bond.”
Sure, head coach Todd Monken continues to divide first-team repetitions as he evaluates his quarterbacks. Still, the mutual respect displayed by Watson and Sanders has helped establish a healthy competitive environment.
The Browns entered the 2026 offseason determined to reshape the franchise after a disappointing campaign. Cleveland hired Monken and made its boldest move by trading star pass rusher Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams. General manager Andrew Berry also reinforced the offensive line and added receiving weapons through the draft. Those sweeping changes have set the stage for one of the NFL’s most compelling training camp storylines. Watson and Sanders will compete to lead a retooled Browns team into a new era.
The Cleveland Browns may have a fierce quarterback competition brewing. However, Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders are making it clear that collaboration and not rivalry has defined their approach entering the 2026 season. Both quarterbacks pointed to the player-led offseason throwing sessions in Miami as a key reason the offense has looked more cohesive during the early stages of camp.