Report relays Browns HC Todd Monken's QB plans for preseason

"I've been highly impressed over the last four months that I've been around him with how far he's come as a player, and he's only going to continue getting better," Monken said. "There's a lot to take in when you're installing. We got through the spring, then we were gone for six weeks, and then you start back up again in a new system. I think you'll continue to see his operation and mechanics improve, and I think that's the biggest part right now is in and out of the huddle, getting to the line of scrimmage, eliminating that anxiety, his anxiety and my anxiety." 

Sanders' progress, however, won't matter if he struggles in his first preseason start. Monken plans to play starters in preseason, which will help him determine which passer jells with the first-team offense in-game. Those reps are far more important than the ones in camp.

Watson, who's entering his eighth season, may be more composed than Sanders, which could give him an edge in preseason. Even if he plays better, he's still not a great option.

Watson hasn't played since the 2024 season, as he sat out in 2025 due to an Achilles tear. That year, he went 1-6 in seven starts and posted a terrible 21 QBR. Sanders started seven games last season, going 3-4 and logging a disappointing 18.9 QBR. 

That may explain why the Browns keep waiting to name the starting QB. They know neither is a clear answer. That said, Cleveland must know who will be the offensive signal-caller before Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars (Sept. 13). Monken hopes one takes the lead in preseason, which would make his decision easier.