Browns’ unofficial depth chart ahead of preseason game vs. Bears has them making statement at QB, former undrafted free agent steals starting spot
The Cleveland Browns have released their first unofficial depth chart ahead of the preseason opener against the Chicago Bears.
The Cleveland Browns have released their first unofficial depth chart of the 2026 preseason, and it comes with several things to point out ahead of Saturday’s opener against the Chicago Bears.
Cleveland has been grinding through training camp for a couple of weeks, and this weekend marks the first chance for the Browns to face an opponent this season. The depth chart reveals where things stand across the roster as the preseason ramp-up begins. However, note these are unofficial for a reason and shouldn’t be taken as the gospel.
Deshaun Watson and Sheduer Sanders listed as co-QB1
The biggest storyline in Cleveland right now is the quarterback battle, and the depth chart reflects how close the competition remains. Watson and Sanders are both listed as QB1, with the depth chart reading “Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders.”
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel and Taylen Green follow behind them.
Based on how open training camp practices have gone, Watson may hold a slight edge at this point. Still, both quarterbacks will get a chance to show their abilities in a game setting Saturday. Browns coach Todd Monken has not decided who will start against the Bears as of now.
Undrafted linebacker Easton Mascarenas-Arnold earns starting nod
The second notable takeaway is at linebacker. Mascarenas-Arnold is listed as a starter alongside Quincy Williams and Carson Schwesinger in Cleveland’s base 4-3 defense. The former undrafted free agent is edging out Winston Reid for the third linebacker spot.
The move should not come as a total surprise. Monken has been open about Mascarenas-Arnold being a positive player throughout training camp. Getting the starting designation on the first depth chart is a good sign for the young linebacker heading into the preseason.
Blake Whiteheart listed as the second tight end for Cleveland
The third takeaway comes at tight end, where Whiteheart is ahead of free agent addition Jack Stoll on the depth chart. Stoll was brought in as more of a blocking tight end, and Whiteheart brings slightly better pass-catching ability. At this point it’s Whiteheart as TE2 behind Harold Fannin Jr.
Brendon Bates follows, and then rookies Carson Ryan and Joe Royer round out the tight end room. Royer is not with the team right now, away for personal reasons.
Saturday’s game in Chicago will provide the first real look at how this depth chart holds up against live competition. The quarterback situation will command the most attention, but performances from players like the middle and back end of the roster are always worth watching.
