The Cleveland Browns are entering the 2026 offseason in a state of total upheaval. Following a disappointing 5-12 campaign and firing of head coach Kevin Stefanski, one GM Andrew Berry’s main focuses is the offense–including the quarterback position.
While rookie Shedeur Sanders showed flashes of brilliance after taking over the starting role in late 2025, his status as “franchise QB” is definitely not secure.
During his end-of-season press conference, Berry was non-committal, stating he “can’t say whether the 2026 starter is internal or external.”
That ambiguity has fueled reports that the Browns are preparing a major splash in the veteran market.
#Browns GM Andrew Berry says “we’re going to do our work on the quarterback market. It’s too important of a position.” Adds that new HC will have a say. pic.twitter.com/5vGnbBzsoP
— Ashley Bastock (@AshleyBastock42) January 5, 2026
Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay believes the Browns will look to acquire a Pro Bowl quarterback like Mac Jones. That would make for a fascinating addition to a training camp battle that at the moment would include Sanders, Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel.
The big question surrounds Cleveland’s salary cap situation, which largely revolves around Watson’s cap hit. A dead cap hit will become a huge issue for the franchise over the next few seasons. Would trading for Jones make sense?
The 27-year-old is entering the second season of a two-year deal worth $8.4 million with the San Francisco 49ers in 2026. His total earnings this season will be $4.6 million, including a base salary of just $2.8 million.
That seems like a workable contract number for Cleveland, but the unknown surrounds what Berry would have to give up via trade.
Jones produced a 5-3 record in eight starts for the 49ers in relief of the injured Brock Purdy. Over that stretch, he threw for 2,151 yards, completed nearly 70 percent of his passes, with 13 touchdowns to six interceptions.
If the Browns did trade for the veteran Jones, it would be yet another obstacle for Sanders to overcome. Berry’s comments made it clear that nothing will be handed to the flashy 2025 fifth-round draft pick.
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