Browns QB Decision: Monken Withholds Answer After Overtime Loss
Head coach Todd Monken declined to name a starter for the Houston game, citing a lack of offensive meetings following the loss to New Orleans.
By Anthony Lawson ·
19 of 31. That is the completion line for Shedeur Sanders in his first start of the season, a game that ended in an overtime loss to the New Orleans Saints. The number sits alongside 297 passing yards and two touchdowns, a performance that has left the Cleveland Browns coaching staff debating the quarterback position.
The uncertainty stems from a recent injury. Deshaun Watson, the designated starter for most of the year, suffered a head injury against the Pittsburgh Steelers the previous week. He played through the initial evaluation but reported symptoms the following evening. The team placed him in the NFL concussion protocol. Watson missed two full days of practice and was limited on the third. He cleared the protocol on Saturday but sat out Sunday as a precaution.
With Watson inactive, the Browns named Sanders the starter for the game in New Orleans. Sanders began the contest slowly but shifted the momentum late. He drove the team into a tie during the fourth quarter and led the offense into position to score in overtime. The drive ended on a failed two-point conversion attempt.
Head coach Todd Monken addressed the quarterback situation on Monday. He stated that he had not finalized a decision. The offensive staff had not yet met extensively to review the game film. Monken explained that the team’s schedule prioritized personnel meetings immediately after the loss, delaying the tactical review.
Monken defended the decision to start Sanders over Watson. He noted that Watson had not taken throws with the skill players during the week. The only available team reps would have occurred on Saturday, a day when the team was traveling to a loud away venue. Monken argued that keeping Watson out was the prudent choice given his recent concussion history.
The coach praised Sanders' performance in the loss. Monken said he was pleased with how Sanders handled the offense in the final minutes. He described the player as being in command. The coach also referenced his confidence in Sanders based on what he observed during the fall, suggesting there is a foundation to build upon.
The Browns now begin a new week of preparation for a home game against the Houston Texans. Monken indicated he might not announce a decision on Tuesday. The NFL trade deadline is set for 4 p.m. that day. The team is scheduled to hold its next practice session on Wednesday.
