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NFL·PREVIEW·November 5, 2026 01:43 PM ET

Browns prepare Shedeur Sanders to start at Saints if Watson sits

Watson did not practice Wednesday due to a concussion.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 5m1 min read
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What happened: Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Travis Switzer outlined expectations Thursday for Shedeur Sanders should the rookie quarterback start Sunday against the New Orleans Saints. Deshaun Watson remains questionable after missing Wednesday's practice in concussion protocol. Sanders would make his first career NFL start if Watson is unable to play.

Why it matters: Cleveland entered the regular season having listed Watson first and Sanders second at quarterback on the depth chart. The Browns seek a rebound after falling 27-6 to the Pittsburgh Steelers last week. An assignment against New Orleans would mark the first meaningful regular-season snaps for Sanders, selected by Cleveland in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

By the numbers: Watson has completed 163 of 249 passes for 1,806 yards with 7 touchdowns and 3 interceptions in 2026 through 8 games. Sanders has completed 3 of 3 passes for 2 yards in 2026 through 2 games.

What to watch: Cleveland will release its final injury report and Watson's game designation following Friday's practice ahead of Sunday's kickoff in New Orleans.

Sources

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