Shedeur Sanders didn’t need a press conference or a lengthy caption to make his point. Just three words - and a couple of well-placed emojis - told you everything you need to know about how the young quarterback is approaching the next chapter in Cleveland: “Time for work 🔥⌚️.”
That was Sanders’ reaction on Instagram after the Browns officially named Todd Monken their new head coach on January 28. Monken, fresh off a successful stint as the Ravens’ offensive coordinator, now takes the reins in Cleveland - and Sanders is clearly ready to get to work under his new coach.
The timing couldn’t be more fitting. Sanders is heading into the offseason with momentum and confidence, fresh off being named to the Pro Bowl roster as a replacement - the first Browns quarterback to earn that honor since Derek Anderson back in 2008. He’ll represent Cleveland alongside defensive stars Myles Garrett and Denzel Ward when the Pro Bowl Games kick off during Super Bowl week, now set for Tuesday, February 3, at the Moscone Center South in San Francisco.
It’s been a whirlwind rookie year for Sanders, who was selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of Colorado. He didn’t start the season under center, but when the opportunity came late in the year, he seized it. Sanders started the final seven games for Cleveland, showing flashes of promise and poise - along with the expected learning curve that comes with being a first-year quarterback in the NFL.
The numbers reflect that mix: 56.6% completion rate, 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. A 68.1 passer rating isn’t going to light up the stat sheets, but it tells part of the story. What stood out more was his command of the huddle, his resilience, and the glimpses of the playmaking ability that made him such a compelling draft prospect.
Yes, he’s the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, but Shedeur is carving his own path - and doing it on his own terms. His rise to Pro Bowl status in Year 1 is a testament to both his talent and work ethic. Now, with Monken in the building, the Browns are hoping to take the next step in his development.
Monken is known for his creative offensive mind and ability to adapt schemes to his personnel. In Baltimore, he helped unlock a more balanced attack around Lamar Jackson. In Cleveland, the expectation is that he’ll tailor the offense to fit Sanders’ strengths - mobility, arm talent, and a competitive edge that’s hard to teach.
It’s early, and there’s plenty of work ahead. But with a new coach, a Pro Bowl nod, and a clear mindset heading into the offseason, Shedeur Sanders is setting the tone. The message is simple: it’s time to get to work.