Browns' QB Dilemma: Simpson or Wait?

On March 24th, the Cleveland Browns hold the 6th and 24th picks in the first round of the

2026 NFL Draft, and there, once again hunting for a franchise quarterback.

The top prospect, Fernando Mendoza, looks headed to the Las Vegas Raiders at number 1 overall.

That puts former Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson in the spotlight as the next big name, especially

after the Browns hosted him for a top 30 visit.

Simpson only became Alabama's full-time starter in 2025, so he lacks the extensive playing time

of some peers like Mendoza, who saw action at multiple schools. While he has potential,

his limited reps raise questions about jumping straight into the pros. Browns fans know all too

well how young quarterbacks have struggled in Cleveland over the years, often buckling under

intense pressure when they're not the undisputed top choice in their draft class.

Drafting Simpson high could set him up for similar heartbreak right away. Adding to the mix,

Dishon Watson has one more fully guaranteed year left on his $230 million deal and new head coach Todd.

Munkin expects him to compete for the starting job this summer alongside Shadour Sanders,

throwing in another rookie with spark distractions and fanchants at the first sign of trouble.

Looking ahead, the Browns might be smarter to ride out Watson's contract and target a clean slate

in 2027, avoiding a crowded, quarterback room that could undermine everyone involved.