NFL picks: Here’s what prediction markets say about Browns starting QB, Colston Loveland, Falcons starting Tua

The 2026 NFL preseason will get under way in earnest on Thursday. There are six games on the docket, but NFL training camps will continue until the end of August before teams have to make decisions on starters, account for injuries and prepare for Week 1 of the regular season. Sports fans interested in making NFL predictions for the season can take advantage of the latest Kalshi promo code CBSSPORTS, which gives new users up to $500 as a sign-up bonus when they make $25+ in trades with the platform. Sign up here with the Kalshi promo code CBSSPORTS:

Check out Kalshi promo code review page for the terms and conditions of this offer at one of the best prediction market platforms.

NFL trading markets (via Kalshi)

• Deshaun Watson to be Browns Week 1 starting QB ($0.78)
• Colston Loveland to be a top-3 tight end in Fantasy football ($0.88)
• Tua Tagovailoa to be Falcons Week 1 starting QB ($0.78)

The Browns have not officially named a starter yet, and the battle between Watson and second-year pro Shedeur Sanders is said to be tight. Cleveland is reportedly going to have each quarterback start a preseason game before making the final call and given how Monday’s practice ended, this position battle might go right up to the week of the first regular season game.

Neither quarterback is going to inspire much confidence with this fan base, but Watson has the edge as the incumbent on a big contract. Sanders might take over the job if Watson struggles but the veteran still gets the slight edge to start in Week 1.

Luther Burden, a popular breakout candidate for the Bears, suffered a groin injury on Sunday and is expected to be sidelined for a week or two. Burden and Rome Odunze both had good stretches last season, but neither receiver has proven himself to be a true No. 1. Meanwhile, Loveland put up a team-high 713 yards despite being third in targets. With DJ Moore gone, those additional opportunities give Loveland a great chance to finish as a top-3 tight end in Fantasy. If Burden misses time and Odunze remains inconsistent, Loveland becomes Chicago’s top receiving option.

Atlanta’s quarterback battle can’t really be considered a battle because Michael Penix Jr. has not taken first-team reps yet. In fact, Penix Jr. hasn’t even been cleared for contact. That means Tagovailoa, who has his own health concerns, has been working with the other presumed starters. Tagovailoa is probably not viewed as the franchise quarterback for Atlanta but he did lead the NFL in passing yards in 2023 and he has the added advantage of being the only one taking reps. Penix Jr. will eventually get back to the field but this doesn’t seem like much of a true competition for Week 1. Trade on the Browns Week 1 starting QB and Loveland having a big Fantasy season with the latest Kalshi promo code CBSSPORTS and get up to $500:

Responsible risk management

It’s a top priority for Kalshi to keep its users safe. Kalshi offers various risk management tools for traders that can be used at any time, including trading breaks, voluntary opt-out, and a personalized funding limit. 

Prediction Markets are regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) – an independent agency of the U.S. federal government.

Event contracts trading involves a risk of substantial loss and is not suitable for all investors. Participation in prediction markets is subject to applicable eligibility requirements. Participation may be restricted or prohibited in certain jurisdictions and participants are responsible for ensuring their participation complies with applicable laws and regulations in their jurisdiction.