The Cleveland Browns have spent the better part of the last decade searching for stability at the most important position in sports. Four years after making one of the most aggressive quarterback trades in NFL history, they may once again be facing a familiar question: where does their next franchise quarterback come from?

That uncertainty has fueled a growing discussion around Cleveland’s long-term plans, especially after comments from Hall of Fame offensive tackle Joe Thomas suggested the organization is already thinking about the 2027 NFL Draft.

Arch Manning is the star of Texas’ hype video ahead of a crucial season

Appearing on The Herd, Thomas was asked whether the Browns could be preparing for a difficult 2026 season with the goal of landing a top quarterback prospect next year. While he stopped short of suggesting the team would intentionally lose games, he acknowledged that Cleveland appears to be positioning itself for a major move.

“I definitely think that they’re considering drafting a quarterback high wherever they are [in the draft] next year,” Thomas said. “They told you about it when they traded away Myles Garrett and added draft picks next year. Because they know [they] could possibly get [a quarterback] this next year.”

The Browns are still hoping Deshaun can get back on track

The comment is notable because it comes amid continued uncertainty surrounding Deshaun Watson.The Browns acquired Watson from the Houston Texans in 2022 in exchange for three first-round picks and other assets before handing him a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract. 

Since then, injuries and inconsistent play have prevented the deal from delivering the franchise-altering results Cleveland envisioned. Watson missed the entire 2025 season while recovering from a complicated Achilles injury that required two surgeries. Entering 2026, the Browns are still hoping he can re-establish himself as a starting-caliber quarterback, but there is little denying that the organization is running out of time to determine whether he remains part of its future.

The uncertainty extends beyond Watson. Cleveland spent training camp evaluating multiple quarterback options, and Thomas believes the lengthy competition revealed something important. “It’s very clear right now because [the Browns] had a quarterback competition all training camp; they don’t believe that there is one on their roster right now for sure,” Thomas said.

That assessment inevitably raises questions about Shedeur Sanders.The former Colorado star remains one of the most intriguing young quarterbacks in the league, but his development could be complicated by the situation around him. Young passers often need stability, continuity, and a competitive roster to maximize their potential. Cleveland’s current trajectory does not necessarily provide those conditions.

Oregon’s Dante Moore has continued his ascent

If the Browns struggle in 2026, the spotlight will quickly shift to a 2027 quarterback class that already has scouts and fans excited. Texas star Arch Manning remains the headliner thanks to his pedigree, arm talent, and growing body of work.

Oregon’s Dante Moore has continued his ascent after transferring and developing into one of college football’s most dynamic passers. South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers offers a rare blend of size, athleticism, and arm strength, while Miami’s Darian Mensah has emerged as one of the fastest-rising quarterback prospects in the country. Notre Dame’s CJ Carr is another name generating significant buzz among evaluators.

For a franchise still searching for its next cornerstone quarterback, that group could be difficult to ignore. However, there is an important distinction between preparing for a future draft and actively tanking. Thomas was careful to make that point.

The Browns’ recent moves support that interpretation. The blockbuster trade that sent Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams brought back edge rusher Jared Verse and multiple draft selections, including a first-round pick in 2027. Rather than stripping the roster entirely, Cleveland acquired a young defensive building block while increasing its flexibility for future drafts.

That extra capital could become critical if the Browns identify a quarterback they covet. They may not need to finish with the league’s worst record to acquire one of the top prospects. Multiple first-round picks would give Cleveland ammunition to move up the board if necessary.