Report: Todd Monken Didn't Make Browns' Starting Quarterback Decision

Apparently, head coach Todd Monken didn’t have full control to name the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback.

The Browns sparked plenty of outrage this week when they named Deshaun Watson their starter for Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Not only did he struggle to move the offense in the preseason he called out the fans for booing him. And yet, he was awarded the No. 1 spot on the depth chart.

“I took in the whole body of work over the course of offseason to training camp to games, the joint practice and ultimately felt like, to start the season on the road, Deshaun gave us the best chance to move the ball and score points,” Monken told reporters. “That’s really what it’s about. I felt that way going into the last game but wasn’t sure. After we talked as a staff and after we re-looked at everything, we’re gonna go in that direction.”

According to former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III, the front office in Cleveland wanted Monken to start Watson due to his salary. The franchise signed him to a five-year, fully guaranteed $230 million contract in 2022.

“Sources tell me Deshaun Watson WAS NOT Todd Monken’s choice as the starter and many in the building thought Shedeur Sanders was the right move for the team on and off the field after Watson attacked the fans,” Griffin said. “Browns want Deshaun to play for his pay. The fans deserve better.”

This report from Griffin has not been confirmed nor denied by another NFL insider.

Will the Browns eventually give the job to Shedeur Sanders?

During this week’s press conference, Monken said Watson’s job status wouldn’t be a “week-to-week” issue with Shedeur Sanders lurking in the wings.

“I think Shedeur has done a great job, come a long ways, and we’re excited about his future,” Monken said. “But this is not a week-to-week decision.”

Sanders finished his rookie season with 1,400 passing yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. If he gets the chance to start this fall, the Browns will need him to be a bit more careful with the football.