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Todd Monken Names Deshaun Watson Week 1 Starter

9/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Coach Todd Monken kept Deshaun Watson as the Browns’ Week 1 starter.
Monken indicated rookie Taylen Green could play a special package in the opener against Jacksonville.
Green ranks third on the depth chart behind Watson and Shedeur Sanders but may become QB2.
Green posted a 4.36-second 40-yard dash, 43.5-inch vertical and 66 rushing yards in preseason.

History

Historical Context

After the Browns returned in 1999—when Al Lerner’s ownership hired Chris Palmer and used the first overall pick on quarterback Tim Couch, resulting in a 2-14 debut season—the franchise has recorded only four winning seasons and three playoff trips. In 2023 offensive coordinator Todd Monken again leans on speed, keeping veteran Deshaun Watson while evaluating rookie Taylen Green’s 4.36-second 40-yard dash.

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Story summary

Coach Todd Monken kept Deshaun Watson as the Browns’ Week 1 starter.
Monken indicated rookie Taylen Green could play a special package in the opener against Jacksonville.
Green ranks third on the depth chart behind Watson and Shedeur Sanders but may become QB2.
Green posted a 4.36-second 40-yard dash, 43.5-inch vertical and 66 rushing yards in preseason.

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