Bills’ Josh Allen shows Browns what a franchise QB looks like as Watson–Sanders duel winds down

What happened

Aug. 20. Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen led the most noticeable portion of the session, showing the kind of command and big-play ability a franchise quarterback provides. The Browns used the workout to continue a close quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and rookie Shedeur Sanders as the preseason approaches its conclusion.

Why this matters for Cleveland

The Browns are near a starting-QB decision. Coach Todd Monken split snaps between Watson and Sanders against Buffalo's first defense to gain more comparative reps. Monken had started Watson in the previous preseason game and planned to start Sanders in the Aug. 22 exhibition versus Buffalo, with Watson slated to play the third quarter. The joint practice offered both quarterbacks game-like looks outside their own system, which Monken said helps answer whether the first 11 can "move the ball and score."

How Allen performed

Allen operated with his trademark poise and accuracy even with two top Bills receivers sidelined by injury. Highlights included a long touchdown to tight end Dalton Kincaid and several big plays against Cleveland's defense. Allen praised the Bills' tight ends for a strong day and described the practice as one where players were "flying around and making plays on the ball." His presence provided Cleveland personnel a practical example of the standards the franchise expects at the quarterback position.

Watson vs. Sanders — what each showed

Deshaun Watson threaded a 30-yard pass to rookie KC Concepcion Jr. on his first drive but later threw an interception inside Buffalo's 20. Shedeur Sanders completed several solid throws, including a notable completion over the middle to Malachi Corley. Monken called the session "fine," noting turnovers and missed opportunities but satisfied that the offense didn't look out of place.

Injuries and roster knocks

Browns starting defensive end Alex Wright left practice on a cart with an apparent lower leg injury after a one-on-one drill against Bills tackle Spencer Brown. Wright removed his helmet and asked for medical assistance before limping to the sideline. Monken had no update at the time. Running back Quinshon Judkins missed his second straight practice with a lingering issue Monken called "a little something nagging. Nothing big." Wright had 5 1/2 sacks last season, per the report.

Tone and competitiveness of the session

The practice featured plenty of trash talk and some extra shoving after whistles, but no fights. Coaches warned players to behave, and both teams mostly kept the session within competitive bounds. Monken described the edge as appropriate: "It got a little edgy, but not over the top," and said he commended both teams for taking it to the line without going over it.

Bottom line