As the NFL season approaches, Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken has revealed when he expects to decide between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson in one of the NFL’s biggest quarterback competitions.
The Browns enter the 2026 season looking to bounce back after winning just eight games across the previous two campaigns, with high expectations from Monken, who is facing a crucial decision under centre in his first year as head coach.
Watson returns after missing the entire 2025 season with a re-ruptured Achilles injury, while media-darling Sanders is hoping to capitalise on the opportunity as he enters his second NFL season after an encouraging finish to his rookie year following starting Cleveland’s final seven games.
Todd Monken outlines plan for Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson preseason battle
According to NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe, Monken plans to give both quarterbacks the chance to start during Cleveland’s first two preseason games.
That means Sanders and Watson will each have an opportunity to strengthen their case before the Browns face the Chicago Bears on August 15 and the Buffalo Bills on August 22.
Monken made it clear he wants one quarterback to separate himself from the competition.
Speaking about the battle, he said: “I want one of these guys to make it clear to me. Make it clear who is the guy with their play.”
Sanders appears to have made a positive impression throughout the offseason.
Wolfe reported that Monken has been “very impressed” with the second-year quarterback’s progress over the past four months, particularly with how he has operated the offence.
However, the Browns coach also highlighted areas where Sanders can still improve.
Monken said his challenge for the 24-year-old is to “get in and out of the huddle a little cleaner, be a little faster with your decision-making. So me as a coach, I don’t have anxiety coaching you.”
Sanders completed 120 passes for 1,400 yards and seven touchdowns after taking over as Cleveland’s starter late last season, although some still question whether he is ready to lead the Browns full-time.
Monken also indicated the third and final preseason game against the New England Patriots on August 27 will provide the clearest indication yet of Cleveland’s plans, with the starting quarterback for that contest expected to be in line to lead the Browns into Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season.
Read more:
Discover more from NAIRAVOICE.COM.NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
