Browns’ QB Strategy: Navigating the 2026 NFL Draft and Deshaun Watson’s Future
CLEVELAND – As the NFL offseason begins, the Cleveland Browns find themselves at a familiar crossroads: evaluating their quarterback situation. New head coach Todd Monken inherits a room featuring Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel, but the team is prepared to explore all options, including adding a veteran or a rookie through the 2026 NFL Draft.
Scouting the Next Generation at the NFL Combine
The Browns will initiate their quarterback evaluation process at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine. A total of 319 prospects have been invited, with 15 being quarterbacks . While the team will thoroughly assess all potential candidates, one name in particular could generate significant discussion among fans: Carson Beck.
The Carson Beck Factor
Interest in Carson Beck could spark a backlash from Browns fans. Beck has a pre-existing connection to head coach Todd Monken, having played three years under him when Monken served as the offensive coordinator for the Georgia Bulldogs . Despite his collegiate success, Beck isn’t widely considered an elite prospect, and adding him – or other mid-round quarterbacks like Ty Simpson, Garrett Nussmeier, and Drew Allar – could be viewed as a misallocation of draft capital, especially with two young quarterbacks already on the roster.
Deshaun Watson’s Contractual Situation
Despite the presence of Sanders and Gabriel, the Browns appear likely to retain Deshaun Watson for the 2026 season. This decision isn’t based on on-field performance but rather on the team’s challenging financial situation . Cutting Watson would result in a substantial dead cap hit – nearly $135 million if released before June 1, and $53 million with a post-June 1 designation . His projected $80.7 million cap hit is the highest in the league, yet keeping him remains the most financially manageable option .
Draft Strategy and Roster Building
Holding the No. 6 overall pick, the Browns are unlikely to select a quarterback in the first round due to the perceived quality of the draft class. Instead, they will likely focus on addressing other needs with their draft picks and treating Watson as a potential bridge or veteran backup . The team seems content to allow Sanders and Gabriel to continue their development, providing them with valuable reps during the 2025 season .
Watson has not played since re-rupturing his Achilles in 2025 and has appeared in only 19 games for the Browns, throwing for 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions .