The Cleveland Browns' quarterback battle is heating up, and head coach Todd Monken has dropped a bombshell. In a recent interview, Monken revealed that the reps won't be evenly divided among the three contenders: Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel. This decision has sparked intrigue and speculation among fans and analysts alike.
The QB Conundrum
Monken's statement has left many wondering how the team will evaluate its quarterbacks during the upcoming offseason workouts, which begin on April 7. The coach's comments suggest a strategic approach, one that prioritizes a thorough assessment of each player's skills and potential.
"I wouldn't say they're going to be evenly dispersed, but we'll definitely disperse them to give ourselves a chance to at least evaluate who we have on the roster," Monken said.
This quote hints at a methodical process, where the distribution of reps will be carefully managed to ensure an accurate evaluation. But who will take the first starting reps? Monken's response to this question is intriguing.
Evaluating Past Performance
According to Monken, the decision will be based on "what we've seen in the past and where the year ended last year." This indicates that the coach is taking a long-term view, considering the players' track records and recent performances. It's a strategy that makes sense, especially given the unique circumstances surrounding each quarterback.
Shedeur Sanders, the 144th overall pick in the 2025 draft, stepped up in the final two games of the season, leading the Browns to victory. However, his overall QBR of 18.9 ranks fifth-lowest among quarterbacks with at least 200 attempts in the QBR era.
Deshaun Watson, on the other hand, has been plagued by injuries and off-field controversies. He missed the entire 2025 season due to an Achilles tear and has played just 19 games since joining the Browns in 2022. His Total QBR of 33.1 would rank last among qualifying quarterbacks since his debut in Cleveland.
Dillon Gabriel, the 94th pick in last year's draft, started six games as a rookie but suffered a concussion, opening the door for Sanders. Gabriel's QBR of 31.4 ranked 37th out of 38 quarterbacks.
A Fluctuating Share of Reps
Monken's comments also suggest that the share of reps could fluctuate over the course of the spring. This flexibility allows for a dynamic evaluation process, adapting to the players' performances and progress.
"You'd love to be able to come out of the spring with a depth chart," Monken said. "That doesn't mean there's still not competition. But I do think you have to narrow the reps or at least balance up the reps of who you anticipate has come out of the spring certainly in a position to be a starter."
This statement reveals a coach who is open to change and willing to adjust his strategy based on the players' performances. It's a refreshing approach that keeps the competition alive and ensures that the best player gets the starting role.
A Fresh Start for Watson?
Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has also weighed in, stating that Watson has a "great chance" and a "fresh start" with Monken. This comment adds another layer of intrigue to the quarterback battle. Watson, a former star with the Houston Texans, has had a tumultuous few years, but with a new coach and a clean slate, he might just find his groove again.
The Bigger Picture
The Browns' quarterback battle is more than just a competition for the starting role. It's a reflection of the team's overall strategy and its commitment to finding the right leader for the offense. With a first-year head coach at the helm, the Browns are taking a calculated risk, one that could pay off handsomely if they get it right.
In my opinion, the Browns' approach to this quarterback battle is a fascinating study in sports management. It showcases the delicate balance between evaluating past performance and giving players a chance to prove themselves anew. The team's willingness to adapt and adjust its strategy based on performance is a testament to its commitment to excellence.
As we await the outcome of this battle, one thing is certain: the Cleveland Browns are poised to make some exciting moves this offseason, and the quarterback position will be at the heart of it all.
