Browns Head Coach Todd Monken Reveals Truth About Shedeur Sanders Draft

Monken shares his perspective on why the Browns tried to draft Sanders in 2025 NFL Draft.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:15pm

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In his first meeting with new Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders, head coach Todd Monken revealed that the Browns had tried to draft Sanders in the 2025 NFL Draft, but he ended up sliding. Monken expressed his excitement to now work with Sanders, who has a legitimate shot at being the team's starting QB in 2026 with Deshaun Watson's future uncertain.

Why it matters

This interaction provides insight into the Browns' evaluation of Sanders and their interest in him prior to the 2025 draft. It also signals Monken's enthusiasm to develop Sanders as the team's potential quarterback of the future, which is crucial given the uncertainty surrounding Watson's status.

The details

In a video posted on social media, Monken is seen greeting Sanders at the Browns' facility and telling him, "You know we tried to draft your ass last year. You remember that, right?" Monken went on to say, "it's all worked out...someday we'll get a chance to talk about that." Sanders, who played eight games for the Browns in 2025, finished the season with 1,400 passing yards, 7 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.

  • Monken's first stop at the Browns facility was on January 30, 2026, shortly after being hired as the team's new head coach.
  • Sanders played eight games for the Browns in the 2025 NFL season.

The players

Todd Monken

The new head coach of the Cleveland Browns, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens.

Shedeur Sanders

The young quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, who has a legitimate shot at being the team's starting QB in 2026 with Deshaun Watson's future uncertain.

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What they’re saying

“You know we tried to draft your ass last year. You remember that, right?”

— Todd Monken, Head Coach

“it's all worked out...someday we'll get a chance to talk about that.”

— Todd Monken, Head Coach

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This interaction between Monken and Sanders suggests the Browns' belief in Sanders' potential, and Monken's eagerness to work with the young quarterback and help him develop further. It also raises questions about the team's plans for Deshaun Watson and how they will build the roster around Sanders moving forward.