Following a quick exit from the 2025 playoffs, the Chargers decided to make a major change to the offense. The club hired Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator, a move that will have a direct impact on Justin Herbert.

Nevertheless, hiring a new OC is not the only move they have made to improve the offense. The club has been adding new weapons to help the quarterback, and a new one may arrive soon.

Report: David Njoku to meet with the Chargers

After the 2025 season, the Cleveland Browns did not sign David Njoku to a new contract. He is now a highly sought-after free agent, and the Chargers are well aware of his value.

According to Ian Rapoport, David Njoku will visit the Chargers on Monday. He is a seasoned tight end who had a decent tenure with the Browns, who dealt with significant instability at quarterback during his nine-year stay in Cleveland.

Njoku has amassed 4,062 yards and 34 touchdowns during his career. He would have to compete against second-year tight end Oronde Gadsden II for the starter role if he joins Los Angeles.

Speaking on 92.3 The Fan in Cleveland, Monken dismissed Shilo Sanders altogether. “That’s a man making a comment on social media,” Monken said. “That’s someone reporting something they believe. It’s their opinion. Fine, I’m — not my opinion, I didn’t say that.”

Reporter Mary Kay Cabot stated that the Browns “should declare [Watson] QB1 asap and let the 1st team offense start to cook. There’s no time to waste.” To that, Shilo Sanders responded “Go make a sandwich Mary.” He faced backlash for being misogynistic.

Monken is not naming a starting QB yet

While Monken has revealed the final decision between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders is still up in the air, he knows a decision must be coming soon. Monken also dismissed the report, and he is focused on working furthermore.

Monken comes from the Baltimore Ravens, which means he is not used to having QB battles, he is used to having a superstar under center. Now, it’s a whole change of scenario for him.

The Browns will provide good weapons for the starting QB

There’s a pre-draft receiving corps, and a post-draft receiving corps for the Browns. Thankfully for either Shedeur Sanders or Deshaun Watson, the Browns now have solid weapons.

• WR- Jerry Jeudy
• WR- KC Concepcion
• WR- Denzel Boston
• WR- Cedric Tillman
• TE- Harold Fannin Jr.
• RB- Quinshon Judkins

After a report stated that Shedeur Sanders is trailing Deshaun Watson in the Browns QB battle, the head coach went on and say “I’m not there yet, so I can’t say that… What I’ve seen after three days, that gives us a 40,000-foot view of where we’re at. There’s only so many reps you get, you’ve got to start to target towards who is gonna start opening day. That can still change.”

Hence, the reports might indicate who’s leading the competition, but not precisely that the decision is made. After all, nailing your starting quarterback is the first step towards success.

Deshaun Watson vs Shedeur Sanders

The Browns don’t have elite talent on their quarterback depth chart. Watson and Sanders both have under 60% completion. However, Watson has less turnovers in 12 games more with the Browns than Sanders.

On the other hand, Sanders averages one touchdown per game, more than Watson. Both are controversial figures that don’t return elite production, but one of them must start either way.

The Browns have to be competent on offense, as they are elite on defense

The Browns defense is arguably the best in the NFL. Hence, the team doesn’t even need to put 30 points per game, the defense just need the offense to not be one of the league’s worse.

In 2025, the Browns were the fourth-best total defense in the NFL. Hence, it’s just natural that they will continue their path of dominance, as most players remained with the team. If the offense is functional, the Browns can win plenty of games.

Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reported that the former Houston Texans quarterback came out of minicamp with a better chance of being the QB1 for Todd Monken. Most of the snaps with the first team went to Watson, a clear indication of the direction the franchise is heading in this new era.

Sanders, for his part, will need to step up his efforts to compete for the spot. Behind him, Dillon Gabriel is still in the mix, along with recently drafted 6th-round pick No. 182 Taylen Green.

Watson as the starter for the Browns

Deshaun Watson’s last start at the Dawg Pound took place on October 20, 2024, against the Cincinnati Bengals, a game that ended abruptly when he suffered a season-ending torn Achilles. Before the injury, he completed 15 of 17 passes for 128 yards, recording a solid 88.2% completion rate but failing to find the end zone.

If Watson is confirmed as the starter, he will be tasked with leading one of the youngest offensive units in the league. Following a 2026 Draft where Cleveland selected eight offensive players—including high-profile rookies like wide receiver Denzel Boston (22) and tackle Spencer Fano (21)—Watson must provide veteran stability for a roster teeming with inexperienced talent.

With young stars like Harold Fannin Jr. and Cedric Tillman taking on larger roles, the pressure will be on Watson to “carry” this revamped group and prove he can still execute at an elite level after his lengthy recovery.

Andrew Berry’s support for Shedeur

Despite the parity that currently exists in the Cleveland Browns’ QB room, Shedeur Sanders will clearly need to further elevate his abilities if he wants to earn the starting job. Andrew Berry hopes that in his second season in the NFL, he can continue learning and refining his game to achieve strong results.

“To take another step and keep growing and learning. I think he’s had a really nice offseason. He did a really nice job at voluntary minicamp,“ the GM said during a conversation with Tony Rizzo.

“I think his improvements in decision making and pocket management by the end of the year and certainly what we’ve seen so far in a very short spring have been positive. And I expect him to have more command of the offense and better ball security and situational awareness as we go into Year 2.”

Speaking to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, Browns GM Andrew Berry said, “He’s [Jeudy] our bell cow. With receiver rooms, you can have maybe a ball dominant player or you can essentially build a basketball team with different skill sets. We prefer the second approach.”

What this means is that while Concepcion and Boston will have plenty of relevance, it’s still Jerry Jeudy the one who will have the most looks. Jeudy struggled with drops last season, and now has the pressure to bounce back, otherwise he might stop being the bell cow.

Browns spent big draft capital

The other fact that could put Jeudy in jeopardy of losing his role is the draft capital spent by the Browns. KC Concepcion is a first-round pick, and Denzel Boston is a second-rounder, but he was projected to go in the first. Hence, both are very talented wideouts ready to raise their relevance if given the chance.

The Browns ranked 31st in passing offense last season. In fact, no player had more than 731 yards last season. With this revamped offense, the outlook should be much, much better. However, pressure must be put on the quarterback, whether that’s Shedeur Sanders or Deshaun Watson, because receivers rely on them.

Browns updated WR depth chart

From one of the worst WR rooms in the NFL, to one of the most promising and exciting, the Browns really turned it around. Now it’s up to head coach Todd Monken to be able to put all these talented players in the best situation.

1. Jerry Jeudy
2. KC Concepcion
3. Denzel Boston
4. Cedric Tillman
5. Tylan Wallace
6. Isaiah Bond
7. Malachi Corley
8. Gage Larvadain
9. Luke Floriea
10. Jamari Thrash
11. Isaiah Wooden

That stance was confirmed by insider Adam Schefter, who reported: “Despite drafting QB Taylen Green today, the Browns say they have no plans to trade QB Dillon Gabriel.”

Even with that assurance, the reality in Cleveland remains complicated. With Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, Gabriel, and now Green all in the mix, the Browns are once again navigating a crowded and highly controversial quarterback situation.

A crowded QB depth chart for the Browns

Keeping Dillon Gabriel in the fold suggests the Browns still value his role, whether as depth or as a legitimate competitor. After already being part of a crowded battle last season, his position doesn’t necessarily weaken, but it doesn’t become clearer either with new head coach Todd Monken.

The bigger picture centers on how all four quarterbacks coexist. Watson brings experience, Sanders carries intrigue as a potential QB1 despite an inconsistent year in 2025, Gabriel remains a steady option, and Green enters as a developmental piece with upside. That combination creates opportunity, but also uncertainty.

For Sanders in particular, the message is unmistakable. Even if the coaching staff believes in his potential, the constant additions to the room reinforce that nothing will be handed to him. Every rep, every practice, and every preseason snap will matter.

And while the Browns insist there are no plans to trade Gabriel, situations like this rarely stay static. As training camp unfolds and roles begin to take shape, decisions will have to be made. It’s hard to expect four quarterbacks will remain on the roster.

For Sanders, this is a familiar position. Just a year ago, he entered a crowded quarterback room competing with veterans like Joe Flacco and Tyler Huntley, as well as rookie Dillon Gabriel. Now, the cycle repeats. The names have changed, but the uncertainty remains and, once again, Sanders finds himself fighting to prove he belongs at the top of the depth chart.

The difference this time is the pressure. Expectations have shifted, and so has the margin for error. After an inconsistent 2025 season, Sanders no longer carries the same level of untouchable upside. The Browns may still believe in him, but their actions suggest they’re not willing to rely on that belief alone.

What is Browns QB depth chart?

With Deshaun Watson still in the picture, along with Dillon Gabriel and now Taylen Green, the Browns’ quarterback room is once again packed with options in an open competition for Shedeur Sanders.

While Green may be viewed as a long-term project, his presence adds another layer of competition and reinforces the idea that no spot is secure. Head coach Todd Monken may be comfortable with Sanders as a potential QB1, but comfort doesn’t equal commitment.

The team’s approach suggests they want competition to drive clarity, not assumptions to dictate roles. And for Sanders, that means nothing will be handed to him.

Shedeur Sanders will have to fight for QB1 job

What makes this situation particularly intriguing is how quickly narratives can shift. One strong training camp could solidify Sanders’ position, but any inconsistency could open the door for someone else.

That’s the reality of a crowded room. Every rep matters, and every mistake is amplified. Once again, the Browns head into a season with more questions than answers at quarterback. And once again, Shedeur Sanders is right at the center of it.

“I actually got, kind of like, a story. When I had entered the transfer portal after my sophomore season, I had actually went down to Colorado and met Shedeur,” Concepcion told media. “He’s a great guy, a great leader. I just cannot wait to build that relationship, build that connection with him.”

Sanders embraces this Browns’ new era, even amid uncertainty over whether he will be the starter in the season opener. What is clear is that the Dawg Pound is excited about the possibility of making a big impact next season in the AFC North.

Concepcion arrives in Cleveland with strong numbers

In his standout 2025 campaign with Texas A&M, KC Concepcion solidified his reputation as one of the most versatile threats in college football, earning First-team All-American honors. He led the Aggies with 61 receptions for 919 yards and 9 touchdowns, while showcasing his “all-purpose” utility by adding 75 rushing yards and two punt return touchdowns.

Concepcion’s elite run-after-catch ability and slot versatility could perfectly complement Shedeur Sanders. Sanders’ surgical accuracy and poise under pressure should allow Concepcion to thrive in space, creating a dynamic young duo capable of revitalizing the Browns‘ passing attack through precise timing and explosive playmaking.

Other Browns Draft picks

Beyond the addition of KC Concepcion, Cleveland focused heavily on the trenches by drafting Utah tackle Spencer Fano (9th overall) to serve as a cornerstone protector. In addition to this, they continued to bolster their offensive identity by selecting Washington receiver Denzel Boston and adding depth to the line with Austin Barber.

A new era with Todd Monken in Cleveland

The Cleveland Browns have officially entered a new era with Todd Monken at the helm as the team’s 19th head coach, following his highly successful stint as the offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens. Coming off a 2025 season where his Ravens offense ranked among the NFL‘s elite—finishing third in scoring (27.9 PPG) and second in total yards per game (375.6)—Monken aims to translate that explosive production to Cleveland.

His primary goal is to transform the Browns into a legitimate contender in the fiercely competitive AFC North by implementing a versatile, high-tempo scheme that balances a physical ground game with a sophisticated aerial attack. By focusing on player development and strategic aggressive play-calling, Monken looks to end the divisional dominance of rivals like the Steelers and Ravens and firmly establish Cleveland as a powerhouse in the conference.

Unlike previous drafts, quarterback is not a pressing need across the league. That reality has pushed a number of talented prospects into Day 2, creating potential value picks for teams willing to wait. For front offices, the question is no longer about urgency, it’s about opportunity.

A handful of teams could still be in the market. The Arizona Cardinals, New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and possibly the Pittsburgh Steelers all have varying degrees of uncertainty at the position. Whether it’s long-term planning or depth concerns, each could justify taking a quarterback if the value aligns.

Top QB prospects still on the board for Round 2 in 2026 NFL Draft

Carson Beck enters Day 2 as one of the most polished passers available. The Miami product offers prototypical size, pocket presence, and a calm decision-making style that could translate quickly at the next level. He may not carry elite athletic upside, but his floor makes him an appealing option for quarterback-needy teams. A proven ‘veteran’ in college.

Garrett Nussmeier from LSU brings a different profile. More aggressive, more willing to push the ball downfield, and capable of creating explosive plays. That play style comes with risk, but in the right system, it could unlock high-end production. Teams looking for upside may view him as one of the most intriguing names still available. A year ago, he was seen as a Top 10 pick.

Drew Allar of Penn State remains a fascinating case. Once viewed as a potential first-round talent, his slide into Day 2 reflects inconsistency rather than lack of ability. With his arm strength and physical tools, Allar still offers significant upside for a team willing to develop him. The Steelers could be the team to watch here.

Cole Payton from North Dakota State represents the classic sleeper. Coming from a smaller program, he may not have faced elite competition weekly, but his versatility and athleticism stand out. He could appeal to teams looking for a developmental quarterback with dual-threat potential.

Taylen Green of Arkansas rounds out the group as perhaps the most dynamic athlete among the available quarterbacks. His mobility and playmaking ability make him an intriguing modern option, though refinement as a passer will be key to his long-term success.

Potential fits and what comes next

For the Arizona Cardinals, adding a young quarterback could be about securing depth and future flexibility. The New York Jets may also explore options, especially if they’re not fully settled long term at the position. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns continue to operate with uncertainty at the QB position, making a Day 2 selection a logical move.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are a more subtle candidate. While not an immediate necessity, the situation could shift depending on health concerns and long-term planning. That makes a developmental prospect an option worth considering. Right now, they just have Will Howard and Mason Rudolph as Aaron Rodgers hasn’t said anything.

Ultimately, this isn’t a quarterback-heavy draft in terms of demand, but that’s exactly what makes it interesting. With less pressure and more talent available than expected, Day 2 could deliver surprising value. The teams that capitalize may not make the loudest headlines now, but they could end up making the smartest decisions in the long run.

The first big trade of the 2026 NFL Draft was executed by the Chiefs. Andy Reid’s team acquired the No. 6 overall pick from the Browns, surrendering three draft picks to move up.

Kansas City gave up the 9th, 74th, and 148th overall picks in exchange for the No. 6 selection. They still hold another first-round pick at No. 29, which was originally acquired from the Rams.

• Round 1, No. 6: Mansoor Delane, CB (LSU) — Acquired from Cleveland
• Round 1, No. 29: Acquired from LA Rams
• Round 2, No. 40: Acquired from LA Rams
• Round 4, No. 109: Original Pick
• Round 5, No. 169: Acquired from LA Rams
• Round 5, No. 176: Compensatory Pick
• Round 6, No. 210: Acquired from LA Rams

Kansas City needed an aggresive 2026 NFL Draft

The Kansas City Chiefs needed to make an aggressive move. Following a disappointing 2025 NFL season in which a playoff berth slipped away, the Chiefs needed to be aggressive in the 2026 draft, which is why the trade-up makes sense.

It is true that Patrick Mahomes remains a top-tier quarterback. However, he tore his ACL at the end of last season, which raises more concerns about what will happen in the future.

By bolstering the defense, Andy Reid makes it clear that the Chiefs must not rely solely on the offense. Delane was widely regarded as the best cornerback in the class, and improving the secondary was crucial.

Following his first practices with the new staff, Sanders highlighted a different atmosphere compared to what he experienced during his rookie season with Kevin Stefanski.

“Coach Monken’s great and all the other coaches on the staff are extremely great. They’re going to understand and embrace you just as a person, and then they push you each and every day in the meeting room, on the field, in the weight room. It’s a new vibe, a new energy.”

Will the Browns draft QB?

It’s possible that the Cleveland Browns draft a quarterback. However, Shedeur’s statement hints and marks a contrast from his difficult rookie year under Kevin Stefanski.

During that stretch, opportunities were limited as the Browns leaned on veterans like Joe Flacco and other options such as Dillon Gabriel before Sanders eventually saw the field.

Sanders ultimately stepped into a larger role following an injury to Gabriel, but his performances did not produce particularly remarkable results. As a result, questions about his long-term outlook with the franchise remain firmly in place.

Who will be Browns starting quarterback?

Shedeur Sanders has the lead to be the Browns starting quarterback in 2026, but, even with a strong early connection to Monken, uncertainty continues to surround the position. A new coach often looks to bring in his own QB, rather than fully committing to a player inherited from a previous regime.

That leaves the Browns in a delicate position. While Sanders may get a fresh opportunity in a new system, the possibility of the team drafting another quarterback cannot be ruled out, keeping competition and pressure firmly in place heading into the season.