Cleveland Browns rumor suggests team ditch Sheduer Sanders for 2026 rookie

The Cleveland Browns are in an interesting spot this offseason. 

The team drafted two quarterbacks in 2025, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, and also has Deshaun Watson still on the roster. Gabriel and Sanders both showed some flashes as rookies, but both were inconsistent and neither proved without a shadow of a doubt they deserve to be the starter. 

As a result, is it really possible the Browns could take another passer in the 2026 draft? Well, Moe Moton of Bleacher Report believes the Browns are one of the best landing spots for Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. 

Simpson is widely thought of as the second-best passer in a weak class, so he could end up getting drafted earlier than expected. It's also possible the Browns view Simpson as having a higher ceiling than the quarterbacks already on their roster. 

Regarding Simpson and the Browns, Moton offered the following: 

It could only help the Browns to take more swings at quarterbacks until they find their franchise guy. This time, though, Cleveland can consider a much less costly gamble to finally solve its biggest need.

Simpson would have a chance to win the Browns' starting job outright. If he doesn't, Cleveland should be able to surround him with a stronger supporting cast next year. As of now, the Browns' new-look offensive line needs to jell, and another wide receiver must emerge to help whoever starts under center.

As Moton mentioned, Simpson could be talented enough to win the starting job in Cleveland immediately. The Browns have multiple first-round picks, as well, so they may be more inclined to use one on a passer. 

In 2025, Simpson played in 15 games for the Crimson Tide and threw for 3,567 yards with 28 touchdowns and five interceptions. The quarterback led the SEC in pass attempts and completions, showing he isn't afraid to air it out. 

Simpson has a strong arm, high football IQ, and experience playing in a pro-style offense against NFL-caliber competition. It's a little concerning that he only has one year of starting experience, but he has the tools to be a high-floor passer in the league. 

While Simpson would be an intriguing option, the Browns could also decide to upgrade the offense and see if Gabriel or Sanders could improve with better weapons. The 2027 draft class is expected to be better than 2026, so waiting a year is an option. 

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