Browns coach Monken says quarterback decision imminent after preseason loss

Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken said he will examine Saturday’s preseason game film on Sunday and then confer with his staff to determine the team’s starting quarterback. Monken, who addressed reporters after the loss to the Buffalo Bills, acknowledged the need to give the quarterback "reps" and avoid limiting options.

He noted that the team struggled with alignment, assignments and communication, which contributed to the poor offensive showing. The final drive, led by third-string quarterback Dillon Gabriel, resulted in three false starts and a third-and-25 situation, which Monken described as a disappointing sequence.

Monken praised quarterback Shedeur Sanders for his cadence and control in the first half, saying the Browns executed well early but failed to maintain that level later in the game. Regarding veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson, Monken expressed disappointment with the overall offensive performance under his leadership, yet acknowledged Watson’s effort and the challenges of playing from behind in the score.

The coach said the decision will consider the full tape review and the broader picture of the offense’s execution, rather than being driven solely by fan reaction.