Experience Over Potential
As the 2026 NFL preseason draws to a close, the Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings have officially signaled their intent to prioritize veteran experience under center. Browns head coach Todd Monken announced that Deshaun Watson will start the Week 1 opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 13, according to NFL.com. Similarly, the Vikings have tabbed former Heisman Trophy winner Kyler Murray as their QB1, moving past the internal competition with J.J. McCarthy to lead the franchise into a pivotal campaign, as reported by Vikings.com.
The Battle in Cleveland
In Cleveland, the decision to start Watson comes after a summer-long competition with Shedeur Sanders, a 2025 fifth-round pick who ended last season as the team’s starter. During the 2026 preseason, Watson completed 16 of 27 passes for 162 yards with one interception and no touchdowns, per NFL.com. Despite being booed by fans during a preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills, Watson earned the trust of the coaching staff. Monken noted that the decision was based on the "whole body of work" and Watson's ability to move the ball in high-pressure road environments.
Murray Takes the Reins in Minnesota
The Minnesota Vikings' acquisition of Kyler Murray during the 2026 offseason has quickly paid dividends for the veteran. Head coach Kevin O'Connell named Murray the starter over J.J. McCarthy, who missed his entire rookie season due to injury, according to Athlon Sports. Murray, who has maintained a completion rate of over 68 percent in recent seasons, is viewed as a "renaissance" candidate for the Vikings. The team is banking on his dual-threat capabilities to challenge for the NFC North title after inconsistent quarterback play hampered their playoff aspirations last year.
Implications for the New Guard
While the veterans have secured the starting roles, the "new guard" remains a significant part of both franchises' long-term plans. Shedeur Sanders showed efficiency in the preseason, connecting on 15 of 22 attempts for 153 yards and a touchdown, per NFL.com. In Minnesota, McCarthy continues to develop behind Murray, with the coaching staff emphasizing a collaborative environment. For now, however, the 2026 season belongs to the established stars as they look to prove they can still compete at the highest level of the NFL.
