One of the reasons given for the choice of Deshaun Watson over Shedeur Sanders in the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback competition is that Watson is much better able to run Todd Monken’s complicated offense. There are a lot of play calls and pre-snap responsibilities that Sanders may not be able to handle yet, leaving him as the backup behind a very unpopular starter.
Watson has a chance to turn those sentiments around if he plays well, beginning in Week 1 at the Jacksonville Jaguars. According to analyst Lance Reisland, the polarizing veteran will have an excellent opportunity to do so.
Reisland revealed his expectations for the Browns offense in 2026, saying it will be “much sharper” than it has been in the past.
“Coach Monken has an outstanding plan for attacking man coverage with crossers, rub routes, and favorable matchups. Look for the offense to be much sharper because the right players will touch the ball consistently. It is not about plays. It is about putting your best players in position to find space and make plays,” Reisland posted.
Coach Monken has an outstanding plan for attacking man coverage with crossers, rub routes, and favorable matchups. Look for the offense to be much sharper because the right players will touch the ball consistently. It is not about plays. It is about putting your best players in… https://t.co/2UsPsL4AEC
— Lance Reisland (Coach Riz) (@LanceReisland) September 4, 2026
It is fair to wonder if Watson is capable of running such an offense at its peak. He hasn’t played in an NFL regular-season game in almost two years, and in his return for two preseason games this year, he did not show any ability to get the ball downfield, which is a key component of Monken’s attack.
Playing the first half against the Chicago Bears, Watson averaged just 4.4 air yards per pass and did not attempt one of more than 10 yards. He was able to get the ball to KC Concepcion in various ways, as the rookie wide receiver had three receptions and a touchdown run.
The next week, facing boos from the home crowd when he entered in the third quarter against the Buffalo Bills, Watson managed just 36 yards passing on 12 attempts, with 20 yards coming on one completion. He also threw an interception after struggling with them for most of training camp, which could present a problem when dealing with Monken’s elaborate pass routes.
The Browns do have plenty of offensive talent to work with, with Concepcion, fellow rookie Denzel Boston, Jerry Jeudy and Isaiah Bond at wide receiver; running backs Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson; and tight end Harold Fannin Jr. But a rebuilt offensive line will have to gel quickly with the first two games on the road.
The offense may have a great deal of potential on paper, but it will soon be time to get it to work in action.
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