CLEVELAND – For the second consecutive offseason, the Cleveland Browns discover themselves at a pivotal juncture, searching for stability at the quarterback position. The inability to solidify the role in 2025 has prompted General Manager Andrew Berry to explore all available options, while Head Coach Todd Monken has signaled an open competition for the starting job.
The situation is particularly complex given the Browns’ commitment to building a young roster. As Berry explained, the organization is aiming to be “one of the youngest, if not the youngest, teams in the league” in 2026. This youth movement underscores the require for a quarterback who can both develop alongside the team and provide immediate leadership.
Currently, Cleveland has three quarterbacks under contract: Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel. Both Berry and Monken have acknowledged the potential of each player, but uncertainty remains. Monken, speaking at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, stated, “I don’t see why it wouldn’t be an open competition,” signaling that no quarterback is guaranteed a starting role.
The free agency market offers potential solutions, with names like Daniel Jones and Malik Willis drawing interest. Willis, 26, has shown flashes of promise during his time with the Green Bay Packers, despite limited starting experience. He’s projected to command significant interest, potentially reaching $35 million in free agency, according to reports.
However, the Browns aren’t limiting their search to free agency. The possibility of a trade remains on the table, though options are constrained by contract situations and team needs. Veterans like Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson could be considered, but their age and existing contracts present challenges. More expensive options like Kyler Murray or Tua Tagovailoa are likely beyond Cleveland’s reach due to their guaranteed contracts.
The Browns’ 2025 draft class likewise provides a foundation for the future. Berry’s work in the offseason yielded key additions like Myles Garrett (re-signed to a contract extension after a trade request), Mason Graham, Carson Schwesinger, Quinshon Judkins, Harold Fannin Jr., and Shedeur Sanders. While Sanders’ future as the starter is uncertain, he represents a significant investment in the quarterback position.
This isn’t simply about finding a player to take snaps; it’s about finding the right fit for a team undergoing a significant transition. The Browns have learned from past experiences, including unsuccessful stints with Kenny Pickett and Joe Flacco, that a balance between financial prudence and immediate talent is crucial.
Monken emphasized the importance of maximizing offensive potential, stating, “We’ll do our due diligence to put our team in the best position possible to score points, which starts with the quarterback position.” This suggests a thorough evaluation process, considering both short-term needs and long-term development.
The upcoming offseason will be critical for the Browns’ offensive future. Every decision, from free agency signings to potential trades and draft selections, could reshape the team for years to come. Berry’s approach will be “targeted and opportunistic,” aiming to create a competitive environment at quarterback that ultimately leads to offensive success.
The Browns’ situation is further complicated by the need to address other key free agency decisions involving players like Devin Bush, Joel Bitonio, Wyatt Teller, and David Njoku. How these contracts are handled will directly impact the team’s flexibility in the 2026 NFL Draft and beyond.
The pressure is on Berry and Monken to navigate this complex landscape and find a quarterback who can lead the Browns into a new era. The team’s young roster, coupled with the potential for strategic acquisitions, provides a foundation for success, but the quarterback position remains the key to unlocking that potential.
The Browns will continue evaluating all options as the NFL Draft approaches and free agency begins. The team’s next major checkpoint will be the start of free agency on March 18th, where they will begin to develop moves to address their needs at quarterback and other positions.
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