Deshaun Watson starts first, Shedeur Sanders second for Browns

Deshaun Watson gets first preseason start, Shedeur Sanders gets second

Browns head coach Todd Monken told quarterbacks in meetings that Deshaun Watson, QB, Cleveland Browns, will start the first preseason game against the Bears in Chicago, and Shedeur Sanders, QB, Cleveland Browns, will start the second preseason game at home against the Bills, per Adam Schefter.

Watson going first is the cleaner news for dynasty managers who still have him rostered. He is being treated as the starter, at least entering preseason. Sanders gets a full game to himself the following week, which gives him a real audition rather than mop-up time.

What this means for your roster

Neither quarterback is a reliable fantasy starter until a depth chart winner is clear. If Watson plays well in game one and holds onto the job, his injury history keeps his ceiling capped. If Sanders outperforms in game two and closes the gap, his upside in a full season is higher on a redraft or dynasty roster. Watch the snap distribution and any post-game comments from Monken for clearer signals before the regular season.