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Monken's Praise of Sanders Fuels Browns QB Speculation

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, February 25th 2026 at 15:58 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Ohio, Colorado, Louisiana, UNITED STATES

INDIANAPOLIS - The NFL Combine in Indianapolis is buzzing, and it's not just the athletic feats being displayed on the field. A seemingly innocuous comment from Cleveland Browns Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken regarding Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders has quickly become a focal point of speculation, particularly concerning the long-term future of the Browns' quarterback position. Monken, speaking to reporters on Tuesday, offered high praise for Sanders, stating he possesses "elite traits," is "accurate," and "can make all the throws." He qualified this by adding, "It's just a matter of putting him in the right situation. He's a talented kid."

While the Browns currently have Deshaun Watson firmly entrenched as their starting quarterback, and have other depth options on the roster, Monken's unsolicited positive assessment of a combine invitee has sparked a significant conversation about potential future quarterback plans. The timing of these comments is particularly noteworthy given the constant scrutiny surrounding Watson's performance and the team's ongoing search for consistent offensive success. While the Browns aren't actively planning to draft a quarterback in the upcoming draft - the prevailing expectation remains that they will focus on addressing other positional needs - Monken's words suggest they are, at the very least, diligently evaluating all available talent.

Sanders' individual statistics from the 2025 season at Colorado are solid. He completed 69.2% of his passes, accumulating 3,550 yards and 28 touchdowns, though also tossing 13 interceptions while leading the Buffaloes to a 4-8 record. However, the debate swirling around Sanders extends beyond raw numbers. Analysts are keenly dissecting whether his performance was a product of his own skill, or merely a reflection of a system designed to showcase his strengths, even within a losing team. Monken's suggestion that Sanders is talented despite his team's record is a significant endorsement, implying he believes Sanders has the foundational qualities to succeed in a more supportive environment.

The question isn't simply whether Sanders is a good quarterback, but whether he could be a great one with the right coaching, offensive line, and supporting cast. The Browns, after years of quarterback instability, are acutely aware of the importance of surrounding a signal-caller with the necessary resources. They've invested heavily in offensive weaponry, and a competent quarterback, paired with that talent, could transform the team into a consistent contender.

Beyond the on-field evaluation, the Sanders name carries significant weight. Shedeur is the son of NFL Hall of Famer and current Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, a figure known for his charisma, media savvy, and ability to generate excitement. The "Sanders Effect" is undeniable, and while it shouldn't solely influence draft decisions, it's a factor teams must consider. Having a quarterback with inherent name recognition and a built-in fanbase can be a valuable asset, both on and off the field. Deion Sanders himself has been highly vocal about his son's abilities, further fueling the narrative.

However, it's crucial to remember that combine interviews and comments are often carefully crafted. Monken may be subtly attempting to raise Sanders' draft stock, potentially creating a trade opportunity down the line. NFL teams often engage in these tactics to influence the market. It's also possible Monken is simply being honest in his assessment, believing Sanders has untapped potential. Regardless of the motivation, his comments have undeniably injected intrigue into the Browns' quarterback outlook.

The situation raises a key question for the Browns' front office: How long are they willing to remain patient with Deshaun Watson? While Watson showed flashes of brilliance upon arriving in Cleveland, he has been hampered by inconsistency and injury. If Watson fails to elevate his game to an elite level in the upcoming season, the Browns may be forced to consider alternative options. Shedeur Sanders, despite his relatively unproven status, represents a potentially exciting alternative - a young, talented quarterback with a high ceiling. The Browns are clearly doing their due diligence, and Todd Monken's comments are a clear indication that Shedeur Sanders is firmly on their radar.