Well, that was surprising. This morning Browns head coach Todd Monken announced that Deshaun Watson will be the starting quarterback for the 2026 Cleveland Browns. Part of me understands the decision. Monken is an older coach, and older coaches always go with the veteran. He must expect a miracle to occur in Jacksonville, because even if you count Watson’s start against the Bears, which was good, I just don’t see how this helps the Browns past this year. The coaching staff expected Watson or Sheduer Sanders to walk away with the starting job. Neither did. But even if both were average at best, you go with the young guy to see what you have for next year. Starting Watson is a waste of time.
Before anyone starts with all the conspiracy theories, this was Monken’s decision and only Monken’s decision. Owner Jimmy Haslam and GM Andrew Berry had nothing to do with this choice. Prior to the news leaking out, Monken talked to the locker room and informed them of his decision, so there’s no fracture in the locker room. The Browns aren’t tanking because this is probably Monken’s last chance at being a head coach in the NFL. He wants to win. I thought his best chance would be with Sanders, but what do I know. Also, there’s no plan to play Watson the first two games, road games, and then start Sanders in the week three home opener.
With this announcement, Sanders will be the backup, so who’s the third string QB? I hope it’s Taylen Green. We’ll see in preseason game three against the Patriots what he can do. In other Browns news, DT Maliek Collins passed his physical and is eligible to come off the PUP list. DE Alex Wright tore his Achillies and is out for the season, so the Browns signed former first round pick Derek Barnett. He’ll be a rotational player, but the Browns still need another defensive end, as well as another cornerback. Linebacker and safety are fine. On the offensive side of the ball, the number two OL played well Saturday. I think Zak Zinter has made the roster. Rookie Austin Barber looked good a guard and center Luke Wypler is having a good camp. If Wypler can stay healthy and start at center, then Elgton Jenkins can move to right guard. The running back room is set, and WR Luke Floriea is playing himself onto the roster.
I’m a Browns fan and I’ll always be a Browns fan. Even with Watson as the starter, I’m still going to be a Browns fan. Stay safe, buckle up and Go Browns.