Browns insert LT Spencer Fano with starters; still no leader in quarterback race
Cleveland’s 11th practice of training camp produced a clear shift along the offensive line, with Spencer Fano stepping into the starting left tackle spot alongside the first-team unit. The rookie, who had been sharing duties with Dawand Jones at left tackle, is now positioned to hold the job, at least for the immediate future. The change solidifies the front five as the club had anticipated entering organized team activities, pending health and performance.
Wide receiver Denzel Boston was also elevated to the first-team offense, after previously rotating with the second group. The move signals a broader push to evaluate several playmakers with the starting unit as camp progresses, and it aligns with Cleveland’s goal of building chemistry up front and at the skill positions.
Sunday’s session took place inside the fieldhouse due to a heavy morning downpour, a weather turn that didn’t dampen the emphasis on performance. The presumed starting line remained intact: Fano at left tackle, Zion Johnson at left guard, Elgton Jenkins at center, Teven Jenkins at right guard, and Tytus Howard at right tackle. These five were projected to anchor the line before debates and injuries sidelined some members during earlier practices.
Injury absences, including Teven Jenkins and Elgton Jenkins, had already limited the group at times in camp, and Howard had exited the field with a trainer during a prior session. The evolving lineup reflects the team’s effort to find a cohesive unit that can protect the quarterback and unlock the running game as the preseason looms.
A notable moment from recent sessions came when Spencer Fano and defensive end Jared Verse exchanged a brief, physical confrontation. Fano grabbed Verse in a bear hug, Verse retaliated by ripping off his helmet, and teammates intervened. Coach Todd Monken noted that Fano’s response under pressure made a strong impression and reinforced the sense that he’s ready to handle the challenge of facing top talent in the league.
The quarterback competition remains a focal point, but there has been no definitive conclusion yet. Deshaun Watson’s high-impact practice on Aug. 8, featuring four touchdown passes, sparked speculation that he might be taking the lead. Yet the team’s offensive coordinator had previously indicated that Shedeur Sanders would work with the first unit, only to adjust that plan after a walkthrough when it appeared Sanders had earned additional reps with the top group.
On Aug. 10, Monken clarified the sequence, explaining that the earlier rotation change was not a long-term declaration but a temporary adjustment. He emphasized that the decision was contingent on health and game plan needs, and that the coaching staff would continue to evaluate the quarterbacks in practice and in controlled game situations.
Looking ahead to the preseason, the staff has not committed to a definitive starter for the opener against Chicago. Monken indicated the goal is to have the starting unit on the field for the opening series if medical circumstances permit, ensuring the line’s protection and run-blocking can be truly tested. The quarterback who does not start versus the Bears would get the chance to open the next preseason game against Buffalo on Aug. 22, offering another meaningful data point for evaluation.
Both quarterbacks have shown growth in recent days. Sanders has continued to sharpen decision-making and timing, while Watson has demonstrated sharper reads and better ball placement. Monken stressed that improvement is ongoing for both players, and that the team will continue to rotate and assess until a clear path emerges—without hastening a decision that could affect the regular-season rollout.
In short, Cleveland is balancing a clear increase in responsibility for its young left tackle with a broader, ongoing examination of its quarterback options. The next few practices will be telling as the staff weighs the feel of the protection, the effectiveness of the run game, and the timing chemistry between the top receivers and whoever is under center. The path to a starter remains unsettled, but the early momentum favors a more settled offensive line and continued competition at quarterback as the calendar moves toward the preseason schedule.
