The Cleveland Browns entered OTAs hoping to see progress from Shedeur Sanders. According to new head coach Todd Monken, though, they are seeing far more than that. As Cleveland ramps up preparations for the 2026 season, Monken delivered quite a strong endorsement of Sanders’ development. He praised the young quarterback’s growing command of the offense and his rapid mental progression.
“He has ‘come miles’ from where he started,” Monken told reporters. “His progressions, getting the ball out, his understanding of concepts—I think he’s really, really come a long way.”
For a quarterback whose arm talent was never the question, the comments carry major significance. Cleveland’s coaching staff has focused heavily on Sanders’ processing speed, timing, and ability to diagnose defensive looks within Monken’s demanding system. Early indications suggest the work is paying off.
The Browns believe Sanders is becoming far more comfortable operating the offense. That growth could dramatically alter Cleveland’s offensive ceiling heading into training camp. If Sanders continues mastering the playbook, the Browns may have found the long-term answer at the game’s most important position. For Browns fans, Monken’s enthusiastic review injects genuine optimism into the summer.
Selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, he appeared in eight games and started seven during a difficult rookie campaign. He completed 56.6 percent of his passes for 1,400 yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions while battling inconsistent protection and the adjustment to NFL speed. Now entering his second season, the Browns are clearly encouraged by the strides he has already made during the offseason program.
The Cleveland Browns entered OTAs hoping to see progress from Shedeur Sanders. According to new head coach Todd Monken, though, they are seeing far more than that. As Cleveland ramps up preparations for the 2026 season, Monken delivered quite a strong endorsement of Sanders’ development.
