Todd Monken entered the season with plenty of questions surrounding his decision to make Deshaun Watson Cleveland's starting quarterback. Many Browns fans wanted a different direction, but Monken refused to abandon Watson before giving him a genuine opportunity. Three weeks later, that decision is looking increasingly justified.

Watson struggled in the opener, throwing for 205 yards, one touchdown and one interception in a 34-10 loss to Jacksonville. However, he responded with 238 yards and two touchdowns against Tampa Bay before throwing another two scores in Cleveland's 21-18 victory over Carolina.

Through three games, Watson has thrown for 587 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. More importantly, the Browns have won their last two games, giving Monken's belief in his quarterback plenty of momentum.

That resurgence has also strengthened Monken's standing. Former NFL head coach Rex Ryan praised him on ESPN's Get Up, crediting Monken for trusting Watson when outside voices wanted him gone.

“To me, this is, this is all about the coach. All about the coach actually believing in this kid. All right, when everybody wants to throw him out, criticize everything about him. He actually believes in him. But I love this coach. The whole football team is rallying around this football coach.”

Ryan's comments highlight how dramatically the conversation has shifted. Monken's decision remains a gamble, but Watson's recent performances have given the Browns coach reason to keep believing.

Todd Monken Still Wants Deshaun Watson to Let It Rip

Monken previously urged Watson to “let it rip” after his long road back to football. Watson has improved, but he has not completely unleashed himself yet.

That could change as his confidence continues growing. Monken will want Watson attacking more aggressively as the season progresses.

For now, the coach's patience is paying off. If Watson keeps improving, Monken's decision could become one of Cleveland's biggest storylines.

Written by

Joseph Nithin