Is Todd Monken letting Shedeur Sanders know what he expects from him, or putting pressure on him?

Shedeur Sanders ’ first passes in the 2026 NFL season have not been the most impressive. The Cleveland Browns quarterback has made only two appearances, both coming in as a backup for Deshaun Watson when the starter had to leave the field due to injury: in Week 3 against Carolina and in Week 8 against the Steelers .

In total, Sanders has participated in just five plays this year, but he has completed all three of his pass attempts for a mere two yards. Still, coach Todd Monken believes the circumstances under which the young quarterback has entered the games have not been ideal, though he acknowledges that is one of the responsibilities of an NFL backup.

After it was confirmed that Deshaun Watson suffered a concussion from Jaquan Brisker’s hit in the first quarter of the most recent game, forcing him to leave the field, Monken made it clear that he trusts Sanders and is excited about the possibility of him getting a larger opportunity.

Todd Monken trusts Shedeur Sanders

Far from appearing concerned about Watson’s absence, Monken said he is motivated by the chance to see Sanders take control of the offense and show what he can contribute.

I can’t wait. It’s so cool. I mean, that’s an opportunity. If it goes that way, then he gets a great opportunity, right, to go play, right? And for us to see him go play. And, you know, again, I don’t know how Deshaun will feel tomorrow. I’m excited for today. I’m excited for us to go out there today.

Monken also highlighted Sanders’ preparation during training camp and noted that depth at the quarterback position is exactly why teams work with their backups.

“… And I can’t wait to see him let it rip today and see where we’re at. I mean, that’s what you do. That’s why you build depth. That’s why he got a ton of reps in fall camp. I mean, that’s really the benefit of all this, is when we opened it up as a competition, he got a ton of those reps.”

Browns will stick with their offensive plan with Sanders

Sanders has been one of the most discussed names in Cleveland in recent weeks after competing for the starting quarterback job during the spring and summer before the team ultimately chose Watson in late August .

With Dillon Gabriel returning from injured reserve, rumors emerged about the possibility that one of the two quarterbacks — Gabriel or Sanders — could be traded, though sources close to the Browns have ruled out that option.

Looking ahead to a possible appearance by Sanders , Monken said Cleveland will not make drastic changes to its offensive scheme, although he acknowledged there are differences between the two players’ styles.

“I don’t think so. I don’t see the way, because the rest of the guys are the same, and they’re similar in some ways. Some things, you know, Shedeur’s skill set is different than Deshaun’s, but still very similar in terms of what we do. We can’t change that dramatically.”