Amidst the frustrating drama over the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback position, Shedeur Sanders has once again found himself at the risk of being benched. But respite has come in the form of his new head coach's statement.

The recently renewed faith in Deshaun Watson has cast a huge shadow over Sanders. But head coach Todd Monken has made a statement that is most reassuring for the 24-year-old.

Monken recently stated that mobility is only a part of a QB. He laid emphasis on a good completion rate and good third-down play calls. And Sanders, despite his rollercoaster rookie season, fits the description.

“Most coaches would have an affinity for quarterbacks that are mobile, but they also have an affinity for quarterbacks that can complete passes and are really good on third down and in two minute,” Monken said on 2 April, at the AFC coaches’ breakfast. “So it certainly benefits you to have a mobile quarterback, but ultimately that’s just a piece of it.”

This admission is a major morale booster for Sanders. Firstly, it brings attention to Watson, who is 30 and has just been cleared to play after he re-ruptured his Achilles tendon.

Secondly, Sanders reportedly dashed at a speed of 20.1 mph in a 2023 game against USC. 

He is regarded as a ‘pocket‑first’ QB whose 40‑yard dash is estimated to fall in the high‑4.7, low‑4.8 range. Meanwhile, his 56% pass completion may need some work in his second year.

In his limited time on the field in Week 11, Sanders ended up with a 25% completion rate. However, since his first game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sanders logged 73.9% in Week 16, which was his season best. 

In his statement, the head coach later also revealed what he has planned for the QB roster

Monken Excited to Work With Sanders

The Ravens wanted to pick Sanders in 2025 but didn’t at Sanders' request. Now, Monken, who left them and joined the Browns, has talked about wanting to work with Sanders.

The former Colorado Buffs QB has made a good impression on Monken, who has praised Sanders for his “elite playmaking ability.” 

Most recently, Monken called Sanders’ efforts “refreshing.”

“It's refreshing to see a player that recognizes where he's at and where he wants to get to,” he told reporters last week. 

He also mentioned that he “got a chance to sit down” with Watson and that Dillon Gabriel has been absent. 

The Browns recently seem to be pushing for Watson to start in his final season. So far, the quarterback has only appeared in 19 games for the franchise.

Monken is set to divide snaps based on the performances, which leaves Watson at a loss. It would appear that Sanders is still in the competition and has definitely been noticed by his new head coach.

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote