The Cleveland Browns are turning the page on offense - and they’re handing the pen to Todd Monken. After a successful stint calling plays in Baltimore, Monken is now tasked with revitalizing a Browns unit that’s struggled to find consistency, identity, and, most importantly, a quarterback.
Monken’s offensive résumé speaks for itself. He helped the Ravens evolve into one of the league’s most dynamic attacks, blending power run concepts with modern passing wrinkles.
But let’s be clear: this isn’t Baltimore, and there’s no Lamar Jackson walking through the doors in Berea. In Cleveland, the quarterback situation is far murkier - and that’s putting it nicely.
Right now, Deshaun Watson is penciled in as QB1. But in 2026, that designation doesn't carry the same weight it once did.
Watson’s time in Cleveland has been plagued by injuries and inconsistency, and the flashes of elite play have been few and far between. Behind him, the Browns have second-year quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel - both intriguing in theory, but neither showed enough as rookies to suggest they’re ready to take the reins.
So, it’s no surprise that Monken and his staff are reportedly exploring other options. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Browns are expected to add to the quarterback room this offseason, with two names emerging as possible targets: Malik Willis and Alabama rookie Ty Simpson.
Let’s start with Simpson. The Browns hold the 24th overall pick - acquired in last year’s trade with Jacksonville - and that could be the sweet spot to grab the former five-star recruit.
Simpson has the pedigree and flashes the tools you want in a developmental QB: mobility, arm strength, and poise. But he’s also raw.
With just one season as a starter under his belt, he’d likely need a redshirt year or two before he’s ready to take meaningful snaps. The upside is real, but in a draft class lacking a clear-cut top tier, Simpson is more of a long-term investment than an immediate fix.
Malik Willis, on the other hand, could be a more plug-and-play option - especially in Monken’s system. He’s coming off two solid seasons backing up Jordan Love, where he showcased growth in his decision-making and continued to flash the athleticism that made him a fan favorite coming out of Liberty.
Willis thrives when he’s allowed to move - rolling out, extending plays, and turning broken pockets into big gains. That kind of skill set fits right into Monken’s playbook, which has always favored quarterbacks who can create outside the structure.
The challenge? Willis has earned himself a market. After proving he can be more than just a gadget guy or backup, he’s likely looking for a payday - and the Browns, with other holes to fill, may not be able to meet that price.
And those holes are significant. Cleveland’s offensive line, once the backbone of the team, is in flux.
Four starters are set to hit free agency, which means Monken might not have the protection he needs to implement his scheme the way he wants. Add in the lack of a true WR1, and it becomes clear: this offense isn’t just a quarterback away.
Still, landing Monken was a step in the right direction. He brings creativity, experience, and a modern approach that could unlock some of the untapped potential on this roster. But now it’s on GM Andrew Berry to give him the right pieces - whether that’s a new quarterback, a rebuilt offensive line, or a go-to receiver who can stretch the field and open up the playbook.
The Browns are trying to build something sustainable. Monken is here to draw up the blueprint. But without the right tools, even the best architect can only do so much.