Browns' Todd Monken Admits Lack of Deshaun Watson Tape Review

New Browns coach says he hasn't closely examined Watson's recent game film, raising questions about the team's QB1 plans.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 2:36am

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In a surprising admission, new Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken revealed that he has not thoroughly reviewed recent game tape of quarterback Deshaun Watson, who is expected to be the team's starter in 2026. Monken cited the age and irrelevance of some of Watson's available film, as well as uncertainty around the team's offensive system changes, as reasons for his limited tape review so far.

Why it matters

Watson's status as the Browns' QB1 has been uncertain since his trade to the team in 2022, given his lengthy injury history and off-field issues. Monken's comments raise questions about the team's evaluation process and whether they are fully informed about Watson's current capabilities as he attempts to return from Achilles tendon surgeries.

The details

Monken acknowledged that he has seen some 'crossover tape' of Watson from the past, including a 2023 win over the Ravens and a 2024 loss to the Cowboys. However, he said those games do not provide a fair assessment of Watson's current abilities, given the time that has passed and the changes to the Browns' offensive system. Monken stated he has not 'drilled down' into Watson's more recent game film, despite the quarterback being considered the favorite to start in 2026.

  • Monken has been the Browns' head coach for two months.
  • Watson last played in October 2024 before undergoing Achilles tendon surgeries.

The players

Todd Monken

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

Deshaun Watson

The Cleveland Browns' quarterback, who has struggled with injuries and off-field issues since being traded to the team in 2022.

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What they’re saying

“I just haven't drilled down into that. Have I watched a little bit of it? Of course, but there's also some aspects of it, so I would say this. We have crossover tape. Have I seen Deshaun Watson play before? Of course. I saw him play against us when I was in Baltimore Did we play the Cowboys two years ago after Cleveland opened up the season with Dallas? Yes. Is that great film to watch Deshaun Watson on? Absolutely not. I mean, that was not a fun tape to watch. To try and look at that film and say, 'That's Deshaun Watson' is unfair.”

— Todd Monken, Head Coach, Cleveland Browns

What’s next

The Browns will need to closely evaluate Deshaun Watson's current abilities and fitness as he attempts to return from his Achilles tendon injuries, in order to determine if he is the right quarterback to lead the team in 2026.

The takeaway

Monken's admission raises concerns about the Browns' due diligence in assessing their quarterback situation, particularly given Watson's injury history and the team's long-standing struggles to find a reliable signal-caller. The new coaching staff will need to thoroughly evaluate Watson's recent game tape and physical condition to make an informed decision about the team's QB1 plans.