The Cleveland Browns entered the offseason under a new head coach, and with that change comes fresh evaluation of the team’s most scrutinized position: quarterback. Todd Monken, in his first months leading the franchise, has publicly noted that rookie Shedeur Sanders has shown meaningful development ahead of his second NFL season. Sanders, a fifth-round draft pick last year, finished 2026 as the team’s starter for a stretch and now faces a prolonged competition that will determine Cleveland’s direction at the position.
Monken’s comments provide context for a battle that has already produced moments of promise and disappointment. The coach has highlighted Sanders’ improvement in progressions, quicker releases and scheme comprehension, while observers point to a mixed rookie stat line that included both flashes and mistakes. Those mixed results have kept the contest open, with the Browns deliberately evaluating each passer through organized team activities and practices.
Monken’s assessment of Sanders and Watson
Monken has been specific about the areas where Sanders has grown: his read sequence, timing and decision-making under pressure. The coach described this as tangible advancement in process and execution. At the same time, Monken has given balanced praise to veteran Deshaun Watson, noting that his physical traits remain a major asset. Watson, who missed the 2026 season after a torn Achilles in October 2026, still brings mobility and a past elite performance level that the staff values as they weigh experience versus upside.
Injury history and past production
Watson’s tenure in Cleveland has been shaped more by setbacks than by the statistical dominance some expected when he signed a fully guaranteed $230 million deal over five years. Prior to injuries and interruptions, Watson was a multi-time Pro Bowler and once led the league in passing yards. With the Browns now assessing his readiness, Monken acknowledged both the disappointment of missed availability and the intrigue in seeing Watson back on the field as a potential starter.
How reps and drills have shaped the competition
During OTAs the coaching staff has largely rotated quarterbacks so that neither player is given an exclusive advantage. Reports indicate first-team reps were routinely split between Sanders and Watson, with Sanders occasionally leading 11-on-11 periods and Watson taking part in other fast-tempo sequences. The roster also includes veterans and younger options — Joe Flacco started earlier, Dillon Gabriel saw time after roster moves, and rookie Taylen Green remains part of the depth chart — making the overall situation multi-layered rather than a two-person race.
Turnovers, expectations and practice intensity
Monken did not shy away from criticism when drills produced sloppy results; he called certain interception-filled exercises in 7-on-7 work unacceptable, stressing the need to eliminate avoidable turnovers in practice. That message is part of the evaluation: coaches are watching ball security, timing, and decision-making as much as arm talent and mobility. Each rep at OTAs contributes to a clearer picture of who will best execute the Browns’ offensive concepts.
Timeline and what comes next
Although Monken wants to avoid premature conclusions, he indicated a desire to have the depth chart settled ahead of the start of training camp, which the team expects to open in July, and referenced having clarity before the Week 1 trip to Jacksonville (the regular-season opener is set for Sept. 13). Until then, the competition between Sanders and Watson — with backups like Gabriel and Green available — will continue to play out in spring practices and the intense environment of camp, where execution and consistency often decide starting roles.
