# Will Deshaun Watson start Week 1 for the Browns?

Not yet — and you won't get a clear answer until deep into training camp. Coach Todd Monken has said he won't name a starter until he sees both QBs in full pads and preseason games, with the competition officially carrying into training camp (from the **Deshaun Watson** page).

Here's the state of play:

- **Watson had an early edge** at late-May OTAs, especially on explosive downfield throws to Jerry Jeudy and Denzel Boston.
- **By mandatory minicamp (June 10–11)**, Monken reversed course and split first-team reps evenly, saying both QBs "have played well enough to earn the right to compete."
- **Concerning trend:** Monken called Watson's interceptions in seven-on-seven drills "embarrassing," and Watson's accuracy issues were on display throughout OTAs and minicamp.
- **Shedeur Sanders** has impressed the coaching staff with his processing and decision-making, with insider Cameron Wolfe reporting Sanders' "aura" has pushed the timeline back on a decision.

Watson himself said he feels fully healthy for the first time since October 2023, but acknowledged he can't "rewind the clock" to his 2020 form. **Bottom line:** This is a true open competition — Watson is the favorite by experience and contract, but it's far from locked up, and a final call won't come until late in the preseason.

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Answered 2026-07-01 by ChatFFB — fantasy football answers from a live news wiki.
Source: https://chatffb.com/ask/will-deshaun-watson-start-week-1-for-the-browns