The Cleveland Browns kick off their voluntary offseason program Tuesday, April 7. And head coach Todd Monken has a plan for Deshaun Watson.

In the annual NFL meeting that concluded last week in Arizona, the Browns’ new HC caught attention for his stance on Watson’s tapes. 

When reporter Daniel Oyefusi asked why Monken has not watched many, he replied that he wants to give Watson a fair trial for his performance over the years.

“Have I watched a little bit of it [Watson's tape]? Of course, but there are also some aspects of it," Monken began. "Did we play the Cowboys two years ago after Cleveland opened up the season with Dallas? Yes.”

In an X post he shared on Thursday, Oyefusi revealed that Monken is assessing the quarterback’s performance without bias.

“Is that a great film to watch Deshaun Watson on? Absolutely not," Monken added. "To try and look at that film and say, 'That's Deshaun Watson' is unfair.”

The Browns traded Watson from the Houston Texans in 2022. With his stellar performances, the three time pro bowler had convinced the Browns that he would improve the franchise. 

The 2020 season was Watson’s career-best season. He scored 33 touchdowns for a league high 4,823 yards with a completion rate of 70.2 per cent. However, after he joined the Browns, his production dropped. 

Firstly, because of his Achilles tendon injury, he played in only 19 games in three seasons.

Secondly, nothing was working out well in offense under former head coach Kevin Stefanski and offense coordinator Ken Dorsey.

The Browns went  3-14 in 2024 and ended with a 5-12 record in the 2025 season.

As the offense and other quarterbacks also faltered, it would be unfair to judge Watson. And Monken is looking forward to working with him.

What Are Todd Monken’s Plans for Deshaun Watson?

Monken also revealed the impression Watson left on him when he was the offensive coordinator at the Baltimore Ravens.

“I don't know what they [Browns offensive team] were asking him to do. I just know what I've seen over the years. I've seen a really good football player. And we're hoping to be able to tap into that. I know he's excited and we're excited to work with him,” he added.

Monken’s assessment of Watson will certainly shape how many snaps he will allot the QB in the upcoming sessions. He stated that each player’s upcoming opportunities depend on their records.

Watson, who was labeled a “swing and a miss” trade, has one last chance to set his record straight.  

Do you think Deshaun Watson will reclaim his starter spot under Todd Monken in 2026? Tell us in the comments.

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore