Beginning season in backup role

Sanders 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.

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 Browns 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.