The Cleveland Browns did not receive clarity at quarterback overnight, but they did get something close. In a league where timing often matters as much as talent, the landscape around the Browns quietly shifted this week, and it shifted in a way that favors Shedeur Sanders.

Cleveland entered the offseason with more questions than answers after a 5-12 campaign and another reset looming at head coach. The front office kept its options open, signaling it would evaluate both internal development and the external quarterback market. That flexibility mattered, especially with the 2026 NFL Draft initially viewed as a possible escape route.

That path narrowed considerably on Wednesday.

Dante Moore announced he will return to Oregon Ducks for another season, removing one of the few quarterbacks projected as a potential early first-rounder. For the Cleveland Browns, it was a development that reshaped the board before draft season even began.

“Moore’s decision is good news for Sanders, who’s hoping to be the Browns’ starter in 2026. With so few top-notch quarterbacks coming out, Sanders chances of being the Browns’ starter increase exponentially, although it will depend in part on what the new head coach wants…

Mary Kay Cabot, cleveland.com

Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot of cleveland.com noted that Moore’s decision significantly improves Sanders’ odds of entering 2026 as Cleveland’s starter. With the Browns holding the No. 24 overall pick and a quarterback class already viewed as thin, the likelihood of landing a high-end prospect without a costly trade has dropped.

Cleveland’s options are shrinking fast

From there, attention returns to Shedeur Sanders and what he showed late in the season. The rookie started the final seven games, finishing 3-4 while throwing for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. The stat line was uneven, but the evaluation went beyond numbers. Sanders showed command of the huddle, comfort in pressure moments, and flashes of creativity that exceeded expectations for a fifth-round pick.

Still, the Browns stopped short of committing. General manager Andrew Berry praised Sanders’ growth at his end-of-season press conference, pointing to improved pocket management and situational awareness, while also making it clear the team would explore every quarterback option available.

"Shedeur can absolutely be your starter." 🙌

Former Browns WR Andrew Hawkins says Shedeur Sanders has all the tools to be the Browns’ QB1 next season ✍️

(via Yahoo Sports Daily) pic.twitter.com/WTqd72CHcn

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) January 12, 2026

That process now unfolds alongside another major variable. Cleveland is searching for a new head coach after parting ways with Kevin Stefanski, and Berry acknowledged the hire will heavily influence the quarterback plan. Scheme fit and philosophy could determine whether Sanders is developed further or merely evaluated again.

The depth chart also remains crowded. Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel are under contract, ensuring competition in camp. Sanders, for his part, has taken a measured approach, emphasizing his confidence and the experience gained during his seven starts.

“We saw a lot of progress with Shedeur this year…

Andrew Berry, Cleveland Browns GM

Nothing is settled yet in Cleveland. But as the draft board thins and alternatives fade, the Browns find themselves circling back to the quarterback already in the building.