Browns QB Shedeur Sanders bristles at agent questions ahead of first 2026 start

Key points

• Shedeur Sanders will start for the Cleveland Browns in Week 9 against the New Orleans Saints, replacing Deshaun Watson, who is in the concussion protocol.
• Watson suffered a helmet-to-helmet hit in the loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and reported delayed symptoms, preventing him from participating in team reps.
• Sanders recently hired Adie von Gontard as his agent, leading to speculation about a potential trade, but he dismissed the question during media availability.
• Coach Todd Monken praised Sanders’ performance in practice, noting his confidence and comfort in leading the offense.
• The Browns are 5-3 and have dropped to third in the AFC North, while the Saints are 2-5 and rank 28th in total defense.

Background

In the 2025 season, Sanders started the final seven games for the Browns, going 3-4 with 1,400 passing yards. He lost the 2026 quarterback competition to Watson, who has led five game-winning drives this season but has also taken a league-high 33 sacks. The Browns have struggled with pass protection and early-game scoring this season.

How outlets are covering it

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on the hiring of agent Adie von Gontard, fueling trade speculation. NFL.com and Fox News focused on the logistical impact of Watson’s concussion protocol and Monken’s praise for Sanders. Awful Announcing highlighted Sanders’ defensive reaction to media questions about his agent, contrasting his focus on the game with his previous contentious relationships with Cleveland media.

Why it matters

This start could define Sanders’ role for the remainder of the 2026 season. If he performs well, it may solidify his position as the long-term starter, especially if Watson’s concussion issues persist. The outcome also impacts the Browns’ standing in the AFC North, where they have dropped to third place.

What to watch

Watson’s availability for Sunday’s game remains uncertain, as he has not cleared the concussion protocol. If Watson is inactive, Dillon Gabriel will serve as the backup. The Browns must avoid consecutive losses to maintain their playoff hopes.