Browns’ QB Conundrum: Scouting the Future While Navigating the Present
The Cleveland Browns are entering a fascinating, and potentially frustrating, quarterback evaluation period. With the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine on the horizon, the team, now led by head coach Todd Monken, will be meticulously assessing the next generation of signal-callers. This comes alongside a complex situation involving current quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel.
The Combine Focus: Beyond the Top Tier
Cleveland holds the No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. While the top quarterback prospects are unlikely to be available at that slot, the Browns aren’t ruling out adding to the position. The focus will likely shift to mid-round prospects, including names like Ty Simpson, Garrett Nussmeier, Drew Allar, and Carson Beck. Still, any serious consideration of these players could spark backlash from the fanbase.
Carson Beck: A Familiar Face, a Questionable Fit?
The potential interest in Carson Beck is particularly intriguing – and potentially controversial. Beck played three years under Monken when he was the offensive coordinator at the University of Georgia. Despite his collegiate success, his NFL potential hasn’t generated significant excitement. Adding Beck, or any mid-round quarterback, would likely be seen as a misallocation of resources, given the existing quarterbacks on the roster.
The Watson Factor: A Financial Straightjacket
The Browns’ quarterback situation is inextricably linked to the contract of Deshaun Watson. A catastrophic dead cap penalty makes moving on from Watson financially unfeasible. The team is essentially locked into keeping him, even with his recovery from Achilles tendon surgeries and the development of younger quarterbacks. The Browns’ cap situation leaves them with little choice but to utilize Watson, even if only as a backup.
Prioritizing Roster Building: A Sensible Approach
Given the limitations at the quarterback position and the existing talent on the roster, the Browns appear to be leaning towards strengthening other areas of the team through the draft. Rather than reaching for a quarterback who isn’t considered an elite prospect, the team may prioritize building around Sanders and Gabriel, utilizing their draft picks to address other needs.
Navigating Fan Expectations and Draft Strategy
The Browns face a delicate balancing act. They must evaluate potential quarterback additions while managing fan expectations and making fiscally responsible decisions. The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine will be a crucial step in this process, providing valuable insights into the available talent and shaping the team’s long-term quarterback strategy.
Did you know?
The Browns’ current financial situation with Deshaun Watson is a direct result of repeated salary-to-bonus conversions, ballooning his 2026 cap charge to $80.7 million – roughly 26.8% of the total team cap.
FAQ
Q: Will the Browns definitely draft a quarterback in 2026?
A: It’s unlikely they’ll draft a quarterback in the first round, but they may consider adding one in the mid-rounds.
Q: Why is Deshaun Watson still on the roster?
A: The financial implications of releasing him are too severe due to his restructured contract.
Q: What is the Browns’ plan with Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel?
A: The team is focused on developing these two young quarterbacks and giving them opportunities to compete.
Q: Could the Browns trade for a veteran quarterback?
A: While possible, the team’s cap situation limits their options.
Q: What should Browns fans expect from the 2026 NFL Draft?
A: Expect the Browns to focus on strengthening positions other than quarterback, given their current roster and draft position.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the Browns’ activity at the NFL Combine. Which quarterbacks do they spend the most time with? That will be a strong indicator of their draft intentions.
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