Cleveland Browns coach Todd Monken announced that quarterback Shedeur Sanders will make his first start of the 2026 season in Week 9 against the New Orleans Saints. Normal starter Deshaun Watson remains in the NFL’s concussion protocol, prompting the coaching staff to make the switch.
Excitement for Sanders’ Opportunity
Speaking to reporters during a Friday, November 6 news conference, Monken expressed his enthusiasm about seeing the young quarterback take the field. He stated that he was fired up to see him play and questioned who wouldn’t be.
The announcement arrived even though Watson returned to practice on Friday and participated in a limited session. Monken mentioned that Watson could potentially serve as the backup against the Saints on Sunday if he clears the concussion protocol. However, the first-year coach explained that the decision to start Sanders stemmed from Watson’s inability to participate in team drills while recovering from his injury.
Monken commended Sanders for performing exceptionally well in practice and having a strong three days leading up to the matchup. He praised the quarterback’s confidence, operational smoothness, and comfort level with getting players in and out of the huddle and up to the line of scrimmage.
The 60-year-old coach noted that Sanders threw the ball extremely well and benefited from the repetitions he accumulated during the fall. Despite a two-month gap, Monken stated that Sanders’ familiarity with the system, presence on every trip, and dedication to listening to every play call would aid his transition. Monken also lauded the progress Sanders has made while acting as Watson’s backup for the first eight games of the season, describing him as diligent and naturally confident.
Previous Experience and Upcoming Matchup
Sanders has seen limited action in 2026, appearing for just five snaps and completing all three pass attempts for two yards in relief appearances. During his rookie campaign, however, he gained extended starting experience by posting a 3-4 record across seven starts while completing 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.
The 24-year-old quarterback will aim for greater efficiency against a struggling Saints defense. According to the NFL’s Next Gen Stats, New Orleans ranks 26th in defensive EPA per play in 2026 and has surrendered the fourth-most points per game at 27.7.
Monken confirmed that the team will not hold anything back as Sanders prepares for his road start in New Orleans. He emphasized that this is the opportunity Sanders has wanted as an NFL starting quarterback, encouraging him to let it rip and show what he can do.
