New Browns head coach Todd Monken didn’t waste time stirring the pot in his introductory press conference, especially when it came to the most scrutinized position in football: quarterback. Monken made it clear that Cleveland’s 2026 starting QB is still very much undecided - which puts both Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders on notice.
There’s no presumed starter, no locked-in depth chart. Everything is on the table.
That kind of transparency - or ambiguity, depending on how you look at it - tends to spark speculation, and for good reason. A new head coach often means a new direction, and that could include a fresh face under center. With that in mind, one name being floated in league circles is Kyler Murray.
Now, let’s be clear: this isn’t just about swapping quarterbacks. It’s about whether the Browns, who’ve already committed major money to Watson, are willing to take a calculated risk on another high-priced passer in Murray - a player who, despite his talent, has had trouble staying healthy and consistent in Arizona.
Murray’s 2025 campaign was another frustrating chapter: injuries, uneven play, and questions about his long-term future with the Cardinals. Arizona might be ready to move on, and while moving his massive contract wouldn’t be easy, Cleveland could be a landing spot if they decide to reset the quarterback room.
The key detail here? Murray’s deal doesn’t carry any guaranteed money beyond 2026.
That gives the Browns some flexibility - and an escape hatch - if things don’t work out.
At 28, Murray still has time on his side. He’s not a top-five quarterback, but he’s flashed enough to suggest he can be a stabilizing force - especially when compared to the uncertainty surrounding Watson’s performance and Sanders’ lack of NFL experience. If Monken is looking for someone who can deliver right away and still has upside, Murray fits that mold.
But here’s the catch: Cleveland’s salary cap situation is tight. As of now, they’re projected to be about $10 million over the cap. Taking on Murray’s contract, even with the short-term flexibility, would require some serious financial gymnastics - and potentially sacrificing draft capital in the process.
That’s where the debate gets real. Is it worth giving up picks and cap space for a quarterback who’s talented but hasn’t proven he can stay healthy or consistently win in the NFL? Or is the smarter play to roll with what you’ve got - see if Watson can bounce back under Monken’s system, or if Sanders can develop into something special?
For now, the Browns’ best move might be patience. Let the offseason play out.
Evaluate what you have in-house. And if the right opportunity comes along - whether it’s Murray or someone else - then make the call.
But forcing a high-risk trade just to shake things up? That’s a gamble Cleveland can’t afford unless they’re convinced it’s the move that finally stabilizes the most important position on the field.