Browns reportedly considering QB change depending on Week 2 outcome

Entering their Week 2 matchup, the Cleveland Browns are still standing by Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback. But that might not last.

This matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be Watson's last with the Browns as their starting quarterback. Cleveland might be eyeing a change after this week.

According to Ian Rapoport for ESPN, the Browns are reportedly considering a QB switch depending on how Watson and the Browns play in Week 2 against the Buccaneers. Shedeur Sanders could be starting in Week 3 for the Browns.

Browns could make QB change after Week 2 matchup

"Decision time is coming for the Cleveland Browns and their quarterback situation," Rapoport reports. "Deshaun Watson will make his second straight start on the road to open the season for the Browns -- and after that, Cleveland will make its evaluation."

Watson and the Browns struggled in Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, leading to calls for his job after just one game.

Todd Monken naming Watson the Week 2 starter drew even more frustration from the Browns fanbase. Now, it appears Watson is on the verge of losing his starting job.

Unless he plays well in Week 2 against the Buccaneers, it seems very possible the Browns will make a switch at quarterback for their home opener.

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Considering how badly the Browns home crowd booed Watson during the preseason, it might not be a bad thing to make a switch even if Watson doesn't play poorly.

This was always going to be a lost season for the Browns as they rebuild and aim to land a top draft pick and quarterback in the 2027 draft class. Watson isn't a part of the franchise's future, and benching him after Week 2 wouldn't be a surprise.

Sanders at least provides some upside, and it appears he has a real chance of being named the Week 3 starter for their home opener against the Carolina Panthers.

For now, Watson will be the starter in Week 2. But a poor performance could lead to a major QB change, with Watson getting benched for Sanders.

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