The wait is finally over for Cleveland Browns fans, as the organization is set to make its 2026 preseason debut against the Chicago Bears on Saturday afternoon.
This offseason has been filled with drama between the ongoing quarterback battle and a franchise-altering trade. Still, there are plenty of storylines that fans should keep an eye on heading into Saturday's contest. The first preseason game of the year could have major implications on the Browns' starting lineup for the 2026-27 regular season.
Here are three bold predictions for the Browns' preseason matchup against the Bears.
The quarterback battle between veteran Deshaun Watson and 2025 fifth-round pick Shedeur Sanders has made headlines this offseason, and Watson will get the first crack against the Bears on Saturday.
While it may benefit Sanders to start the second preseason game to see how his competition performs, it also opens the door for Watson to gain more ground on Sanders. Chicago will hold off on playing its key starters in the first preseason contest, which should help the 30-year-old ease into his first game since his season-ending Achilles injury back in 2024.

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