Browns’ Todd Monken sheds light on QB competition entering offseason program

The omnipresent debate about the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation shifted into high gear more than four months before the 2026 NFL season opener.

New Browns head coach Todd Monken can be excused for wanting to pick a quarterback and move on to other items.

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On Friday, May 1, Monken addressed the debate just two days after a report indicated veteran Deshaun Watson has an early lead in the competition.

Ken Carman of “The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima” asked Monken if he’d like to have a starter named by training camp.

“I would love to have that,” Monken said. “I’m not there yet, so I can’t say that. We’ve been on the field three practices, which was awesome to get out there with our players.”

Still seeking an answer at QB

Cleveland has struggled to find a quarterback since acquiring Watson from the Houston Texans in 2022. The Browns handed Watson a guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract.

Between a disciplinary suspension and injuries to his shoulder and Achilles, Watson has played just 19 games with for Cleveland. When on the field, he turned in an 80.7 quarterback rating, well below the 104.5 he recorded as a Texan.

Rookies Shedeur Sanders and both saw considerable playing time during the Browns’ 5-12 season in 2025. Sanders went 3-4 as a starter to finish the season and earned a Pro Bowl nod despite throwing more interceptions (10) than touchdown passes (seven).