Todd Monken is about to experience a major milestone with the Cleveland Browns. He will coach his first game as an NFL head coach when Cleveland faces the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Given the circumstances, nerves would be completely understandable. However, Monken doesn't seem particularly worried about the occasion.

The Browns head coach acknowledged the weight of the moment. Still, he believes describing his feelings as anxiety would be going too far.

"Not really. Anxiety's too far over the top. Nerves, I think, are a good thing because you're doing something important, something that's frickin' awesome."

For Monken, those nerves are actually a positive. They show just how much the opportunity means to him as he prepares for his first game in charge.

Now, he has to turn those feelings into results. The Jaguars will provide Monken with his first real test on the sideline, and the pressure will be significant.

Todd Monken is tuning out Browns fans

Monken's head coaching tenure has already started somewhat crazily. His decision to name Deshaun Watson QB1 earned plenty of criticism from Browns fans.

Supporters have made their feelings known, but Monken isn't allowing the noise to dictate his decisions. He understands that fans have every right to express their frustration.

Ultimately, though, Monken believes the responsibility falls on him and his coaching staff. They are the ones tasked with deciding who gives Cleveland the best chance to win.

That makes Watson's performance particularly important. If the veteran struggles, the criticism surrounding Monken could become even louder. For now, the coach is sticking to his decision. Only time will tell whether it pays off or hangs like a cloud over his head coaching tenure.

Written by

Joseph Nithin