What happened: ESPN's Jeremy Fowler said Deshaun Watson entered spring as the clear favorite but Shedeur Sanders has narrowed the gap at least somewhat. The Browns' quarterback competition now appears likely to continue through training camp and into the preseason.

Why it matters: The timeline keeps Cleveland from locking in its 2026 starter before live preseason reps. It also extends a decision the Browns have already carried through minicamp, with Watson's experience measured against Sanders' push for the job.

What to watch: Watch how first-team reps are divided when training camp opens. Preseason usage should offer the clearest signal on whether Sanders has moved from challenger to real threat for QB1.