Browns to start Watson in first preseason game, Sanders slated for next week

Todd Monken told the quarterbacks after Wednesday's practice that Watson will start the Browns' preseason game against the Chicago Bears on Saturday, his first in-game action since October 2024. Sanders will enter in the second half and will assume the starting role for the August 22 contest against the Buffalo Bills. Monken said the arrangement lets both players be evaluated before the regular season opener on September 13 versus Jacksonville.

Watson, acquired in 2022 on a fully guaranteed $230 million deal, has dealt with injuries, a shoulder setback, Achilles ruptures and an 11-game suspension. He expressed excitement about returning to game speed. Sanders, a 2025 rookie starter, acknowledged he is still developing and expects gradual improvement. The Browns will practice against the Bills on August 20 as part of the preseason schedule.