Shedeur Sanders’ Long Wait Ends With Todd Monken Calling Him Ready to ‘Let It Rip’

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders is set to make his first NFL start of the 2026 season against the New Orleans Saints. He has completed all three of his attempts for two yards in limited backup action.

With Cleveland at 5–3, Todd Monken has expressed excitement about Sanders’ opportunity. He also stressed that the team must execute around its young quarterback.

Todd Monken stresses team support for Shedeur Sanders

Monken said Sanders earned the chance through preparation. Cleveland will not build an entirely different offense, but the Browns must protect him with sound decisions and blocking.

“I’m fired up, I’m fired up to see him play, I mean, who wouldn’t be, right? I mean, let’s go, I mean, right? It’s the expectation of the position, correct? Like, right? I mean, this is what he’s wanted, right? He wants to be a starting quarterback in the NFL, let’s go, let’s let it rip,” Monken said in comments shared by FOX Sports. He added, “And the player’s gotta play well around him. This isn’t a Shedeur thing. We gotta play collectively well together and help the quarterback out.”

Sanders is taking over because Deshaun Watson remains in the concussion protocol. Watson suffered a head injury during Cleveland’s 27-6 loss to Pittsburgh, reported headaches, and missed practice. He needs medical clearance to return.

Watson completed 27 of 39 passes for 324 yards against Pittsburgh. He started all eight games, but his availability now depends on medical clearance.

Sanders enters his first start looking to translate his collegiate development – where he finished with 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions across previous starting action – into the professional level.

Cleveland drafted Sanders in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He has remained involved in meetings as Watson’s backup, and Monken said he has worked each week in case he was needed.

Sanders will lean on his previous collegiate starting experience as Cleveland adjusts its game plan to protect the young quarterback on the road.

New Orleans presents a road test for communication, snap timing, and protection. Cleveland’s running game and defense must reduce pressure on him.

A strong performance could create a decision for Monken once Watson returns. A poor outing would give Cleveland reason to return to its veteran starter.

The Browns are asking Sanders to trust his preparation and operate within the team’s structure. Monken’s message is direct: Sanders gets the opportunity, but Cleveland must perform as a team.

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