Overview
- Deshaun Watson produced the stronger showing in the preseason opener, completing 11 of 15 passes for 126 yards and creating early momentum for the veteran.
- Coach Todd Monken scheduled Shedeur Sanders to start the second preseason game but agreed with Buffalo to give starters most first‑team reps in a joint practice rather than the game.
- General manager Andrew Berry publicly said the contract will not decide the starter and called the choice performance‑based, even though Watson carries a large fully guaranteed deal that raises roster and cap stakes.
- Critics and some analysts say the structure of practices and rep distribution could limit a fair in‑game comparison and have suggested the decision may already be tilted toward Watson.
- The Browns plan to keep evaluating through the Buffalo session and the final preseason dress rehearsal, with the starter likely decided after those controlled and game reps and with roster consequences for trades or cuts.