Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation becomes clear as NFL insider details Deshaun Watson's status and Shedeur Sanders' role for 2025

The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation in 2025 has been anything but simple, with injuries and rookie development shaping the season. After weeks of speculation, it now appears the team will stop at three quarterbacks this year. Veteran Deshaun Watson recently returned to practice following a long Achilles injury but remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Head coach Kevin Stefanski faces the PUP activation deadline on December 23, yet insiders indicate Watson will not see game action in the final two weeks.Even if Watson is activated, his role would likely be limited to practice rather than actual games. Browns insider Zac Jackson of The Athletic notes that Watson’s return this season was never realistic. This leaves rookie quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel to handle Weeks 17 and 18.Both Sanders and Gabriel played in Cleveland’s narrow 23-20 loss at home against the Buffalo Bills. Sanders completed 157 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions, briefly leaving the game after injuring the pinky on his throwing hand. He returned after missing just one snap, while Gabriel took that lone play and was sacked for minimal yardage.Even though the QB rotation looks to be set as of the end of 2025, there are some uncertainties as to next season. The Browns have confirmed Watson will return in some capacity in 2026, but his role is uncertain. Financial considerations complicate the picture, as releasing him before June 1 would result in a $131 million dead cap hit. This makes Sanders the likely starter unless the team opts for a major roster change.Sanders has a record of 1-4 as a starter, throwing 55% of his passes successful with six touchdowns, eight interceptions, and 183.8 passing yards per game. However, his willingness to throw downfield and the 123 rushing yards and a touchdown he’s added with his legs show there’s still some encouraging upside in his game. Still, work is needed if Watson decides to come back in 2026. The future of the team’s quarterback situation in Cleveland has been of great interest.Also Read: Shedeur Sanders makes jaw-dropping move backing Deshaun Watson in Cleveland Browns locker room