The Cleveland Browns hit reset again after a brutal 2025. New voice. New structure. Same quarterback dilemma. With Todd Monken stepping in, the franchise’s biggest question isn’t about culture or defense anymore, but who’s taking snaps when it matters.
Shedeur Sanders Gets Lifeline As Browns Focus on Offensive Help
The Browns might not force an answer in April. Despite holding two first-round picks in the 2026 draft, they appear ready to double down on offense, just not necessarily at quarterback. That’s where things get interesting for Shedeur Sanders.
NFL Network insider Cameron Wolfe reported that the Browns plan to load up on offensive help rather than chase a passer early. After multiple offseason conversations with GM Andrew Berry, Wolfe indicated the Browns feel close on defense but see clear gaps at wide receiver and along the offensive line.
“They are expected to go heavy on offense,” Wolfe revealed. “I talked to their general manager several times over the offseason, and he said, ‘I feel like we’re very close to set on defense, but we have needs at wide receiver, offensive line, and of course, figuring out that quarterback question.’ Don’t be surprised if they don’t select a quarterback in the first round of this draft.”
That’s significant. Two first-rounders. A thin QB class. And a front office signaling patience. It also means Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel are heading toward an open competition rather than replacement. Watson has resumed throwing with quarterback coach Quincy Avery, and there’s internal belief he’ll be part of the battle.
DRAFT SEASON: PFSN’s FREE Mock Draft Simulator
Gabriel, last year’s third-rounder, is still in the mix after losing the job to Sanders. But Wolfe added there’s real optimism around Sanders, especially under Monken.
“There’s still optimism for Shedeur Sanders in Cleveland, especially with Todd Monken now as the head coach,” added Wolfe.
“There’s a little bit more flexibility in his offense, and maybe that gives Shedeur a chance to use his playmaking ability more than he was under Kevin Stefanski. There’s also Deshaun Watson, who started throwing against with his quarterback coach, Quincy Avery, this week; they believe he’ll be involved potentially in that competition.”
“The Browns could bolster their receiver at wide receiver and O-line and the rest of the spots in 2026 and potentially let these guys compete at the quarterback position.”
BE AN NFL GM: PFSN’s FREE Ultimate GM Simulator
That flexibility matters. Sanders started seven games in 2025, throwing for 1,400 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 10 picks. His 56.9 PFSN QB Impact score reflected inconsistency. But flashes were there. Monken’s arrival shifts the tone. Berry’s draft capital buys patience.
And instead of panicking at quarterback, the Browns look ready to build the ecosystem first. Sanders isn’t being handed the job, but he’s absolutely being given a shot.
