Browns head coach Todd Monken just dropped some seriously telling quotes about second-year signal-caller Shedeur Sanders, stating the quarterback has “improved so much” already. That’s a huge shout-out from the guy calling the shots, especially when we’re talking about a young QB trying to solidify his spot in a competitive room. Deshaun Watson might’ve started against the Bears on Saturday, but it’s clear the coaching staff has big plans for Sanders’ development heading into the meat of the season.
The Practice Grind: Who Gets the Ball?
Monken isn’t just talking, he’s laying out the blueprint for Sanders to show that growth. Cleveland’s got a joint practice with Buffalo coming up fast on Thursday, and that’s going to be a key stage. Then, they face off in a preseason game on Saturday, and guess what? Sanders is slated to start that game. So, the coach’s words aren’t just fluff, there’s real opportunity on the horizon. Monken detailed the rep division, saying it’s going to be Sanders on Monday and Wednesday, with Watson taking Tuesday and Thursday. Interestingly, Thursday’s a double-dip day, with both QBs getting work.
Drilling Down on Development
It’s not just about getting reps, it’s about what you do with them. Monken broke down the joint practice plans with Bills head coach Joe Brady, aiming for a tight 27-minute session with 16 plays. They’re structuring it specifically for both quarterbacks to get five reps in each block: run-downs, pass-downs, red zone, two-minute drills. Monken’s super specific on Sanders’ progress, highlighting his “climbing the pocket and working through his progressions.” Those are the kind of fundamental improvements you love to hear about from a young passer. He even referenced a throw to “81 [Luke Floriea]” as an example. Monken did say there’s “still room to get better,” which is just coach-speak for “we know he’s good, but we want him great.”
This is the kind of early season development that can set the tone for a player’s entire year. Shedeur Sanders has a massive opportunity staring him down with that start this Saturday. Can he keep that momentum going? We’ll all be watching to see if “improved so much” translates to big plays when it counts.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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