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Shedeur Sanders Could Be Browns QB1 by 2026, NFL Insider Suggests

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 17:07 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: Ohio, UNITED STATES

The Browns' Unexpected Future? NFL Insider Hints at Shedeur Sanders as Potential QB1 in 2026

The Cleveland Browns quarterback situation has been a revolving door of instability for years, and while Deshaun Watson is currently the starter, whispers about his future are already swirling. A surprising name is now entering that conversation: Shedeur Sanders, son of Colorado head coach Deion Sanders. According to NFL insider Josina Anderson, there's growing belief within league circles that Sanders could be a legitimate contender for the Browns’ starting quarterback role as early as 2026. This revelation has sent ripples through Browns fans and sparked considerable debate about the team’s long-term plans at the most crucial position in football.

The article centers on Anderson's reporting, which isn't a definitive guarantee but rather an observation of a developing narrative within NFL circles. She stated that while Watson remains the current starter, his performance and future availability are creating uncertainty, leading some to consider Sanders as a potential solution down the line. The Browns traded significant assets to acquire Watson in 2021, hoping he would be their franchise quarterback, but injuries and inconsistent play have hampered his progress. His contract is also substantial, further complicating any decisions about his future.

Why Shedeur Sanders? A Rapid Rise & Unique Circumstances

The sheer audacity of the suggestion – that a player who just finished his sophomore season at Colorado could be vying for a starting role with an NFL team in two years – stems from Sanders’ remarkable trajectory and the unique circumstances surrounding him. Sanders, following his father's move to coach Colorado, has experienced a rapid ascent in college football. He initially played junior college ball at Jackson State (where he showcased impressive talent and helped revitalize the program, as detailed by ESPN), before transferring to Colorado.

At Colorado, Sanders immediately transformed the Buffaloes’ offense. He demonstrated exceptional poise under pressure, accuracy, and leadership skills that belied his age and experience. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions has been particularly noteworthy. While Colorado's overall record hasn't mirrored Sanders’ individual success – they finished 4-8 in 2023 despite significant improvements – the quarterback's performance was undeniably a bright spot, earning him numerous accolades including Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year.

The article highlights that Sanders’ development is intertwined with his father’s coaching philosophy. Deion Sanders has been instrumental in shaping Shedeur’s football IQ and mental fortitude. He’s known for demanding excellence and holding his players accountable, creating a high-pressure environment that seemingly prepares them for the rigors of professional football. This mentorship could accelerate Sanders' development curve considerably.

The Browns' Perspective: Watson's Future & Beyond

The Browns' interest in Sanders isn’t necessarily about displacing Watson now. It's more about future planning and hedging against potential risks. Watson, as Anderson points out, has a significant contract with fully guaranteed money, making it difficult to simply move on from him. However, his performance hasn’t consistently met expectations, and he’s also battled injuries. The Browns are likely evaluating all their options for the long term, including identifying potential successors.

The article notes that the Browns have been actively scouting quarterbacks in recent years, suggesting a broader awareness of the need to prepare for future quarterback needs. While they drafted Dorian Thompson-Robinson in 2022, he hasn't shown himself to be a viable solution. Having a promising young quarterback like Sanders on their radar – even if it’s just as an intriguing possibility for 2026 – provides the Browns with valuable leverage and flexibility.

Challenges & Considerations

While the prospect of Shedeur Sanders leading the Cleveland Browns is exciting to some, significant challenges remain. The article acknowledges that transitioning from college football to the NFL is notoriously difficult, even for highly talented players. The speed, complexity, and physicality of the professional game are a different beast entirely.

Furthermore, Sanders’ style of play might require adjustments at the NFL level. His success in Colorado was partly predicated on a fast-paced, spread offense that emphasized quick throws and exploiting mismatches. The Browns' offensive scheme may need to be adapted to best utilize his strengths.

Finally, the article subtly points out the potential awkwardness of having Deion Sanders’ son potentially playing for a team while he coaches at Colorado. While unlikely to be a major factor, it's a detail that could add an extra layer of complexity to any future negotiations or relationship between the Browns and the Sanders family.

Conclusion: A Long Shot with Intriguing Possibilities

Josina Anderson’s reporting isn't a prediction of certainty; it’s an indication of growing conversation within NFL circles about Shedeur Sanders’ potential. The Cleveland Browns considering him as a possible QB1 in 2026 is a long shot, dependent on numerous factors including Watson’s performance and future availability, Sanders’ continued development, and the Browns' overall strategic direction. However, given Sanders’ rapid rise and the Browns' need for long-term quarterback stability, it's a possibility that shouldn't be entirely dismissed. It highlights the unpredictable nature of player evaluation and the ever-evolving landscape of professional football.

I hope this article effectively summarizes the Sporting News piece and provides additional context where needed!