Huntington Bank Stadium will be the stage as the Cleveland Browns host the Buffalo Bills in Week 2 of the 2026 NFL Preseason. With Josh Allen sitting out for Bills Mafia, the path will likely be different for the Dawg Pound, as Todd Monken still wants to see both Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders on the field.
The quarterback competition between Watson and Sanders means the coaching staff still needs to see them in various game situations before ultimately determining who will be the starter in Week 1. Against the Bills, it appears to be a true test for both players.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on X, Shedeur will start this game, while Watson is expected to take some snaps in the third quarter. It also hasn’t been ruled out that Dillon Gabriel could see some playing time in this matchup.
Who will start for the Browns in Week 1?
Since taking over as the new head coach in Cleveland, Todd Monken knows that his biggest challenge heading into the season is deciding on his starting quarterback. While all signs point to Deshaun Watson edging out Shedeur Sanders due to his experience, nothing has been decided yet.
Deshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns looks on before the preseason game.
The first major test of the upcoming season will come at the always-tough EverBank Stadium against the Jacksonville Jaguars. For Watson, perhaps the biggest challenge will be staying healthy and at full strength throughout the season. For Sanders, the key will undoubtedly be establishing himself in the NFL and avoiding costly mistakes that could jeopardize his position with the franchise.
Another test for Monken and his Browns
The game against the Bills will be key but not decisive. The Cleveland Browns still have one final preparation game before the NFL season, in which they will look to be a tough team to beat in the AFC North.
The game will also be at home, as they host the New England Patriots. The game will take place next Thursday, August 27.
