Hour 3: Could Deshaun starting be what’s best for Shedeur? + Todd Monken on working with QBs
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The episode opens with a lighthearted discussion about a viral photo involving Diana Rossini and Mike Vrabel, with hosts JP and Coach Riz debating the optics and potential implications, while acknowledging the lack of context and the dangers of moralizing. The core focus shifts to the Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation, with intense debate over whether starting Deshaun Watson in Week 1 would be best for rookie Shaudour Sanders. Coach Riz argues that if Watson is healthier and better than Sanders, he should start—emphasizing that winning is the ultimate goal and that the best player should play. He challenges the idea that sitting Watson would benefit Sanders long-term, warning that it could damage Sanders' perception and career trajectory. The conversation then pivots to Todd Monken’s philosophy, highlighting his belief that players ultimately decide who plays through performance and accountability, not coaches. Monken’s emphasis on player-driven competition and leadership is praised as a hallmark of elite teams. The hosts also reflect on the challenges of overcoming preconceived notions, especially around Watson’s off-field history, while stressing the importance of a clean slate in a new offensive system. The episode closes with a brief, humorous segment on home repairs and retirement plans, underscoring the hosts’ relatable, conversational tone.
The best quarterback should start if they’re the best player, regardless of past baggage or narrative.
Player-driven accountability is more powerful than coach-driven decisions in elite teams.
A clean slate in a new system allows for fair evaluation of quarterbacks beyond past performance.
Sitting a proven veteran to develop a rookie can damage the rookie’s perception and career trajectory.
Leadership is earned through performance and consistency, not just reputation or experience.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Guardians Win & Diana Rossini Controversy
The episode opens with a recap of the Guardians' win over the Royals, followed by a humorous and thoughtful discussion about the viral photo of Diana Rossini and Mike Vrabel, exploring the ethics of public judgment, the concept of 'hall passes,' and the dangers of assuming relationship dynamics without context.
Deshaun Watson vs. Shaudour Sanders: The Starting QB Debate
“If Deshaun Watson's better, he plays. That gives your team the best chance to win. I'm not worried about what happens week six. I'm not worried about what happens week two. I'm worried about OTAs. What can you control?”
Todd Monken’s Philosophy: Players Decide Who Plays
“Players decide who plays. I don't decide who plays. The players decide that. And it's not where they start, it's where they finish.”
The Perception Problem: Can Shaudour Overcome the Narrative?
“If he can't beat out Deshaun Watson, and people think it's legitimate, there will be people like myself that don't think it's legitimate. But if he loses to Deshaun, there's no world that's better for Shaudour.”
The New System as a Fresh Start
The hosts explore how Monken’s new offense offers a clean slate, allowing players to be evaluated on current performance rather than past reputations. They acknowledge the challenge of overcoming preconceived notions, especially around Watson’s history, but stress the importance of new systems in resetting narratives.
“Players decide who plays. I don't decide who plays. The players decide that. And it's not where they start, it's where they finish.”
“If he can't beat out Deshaun Watson, and people think it's legitimate, there will be people like myself that don't think it's legitimate. But if he loses to Deshaun, there's no world that's better for Shaudour.”
“If Deshaun Watson's better, he plays. That gives your team the best chance to win. I'm not worried about what happens week six. I'm not worried about what happens week two. I'm worried about OTAs. What can you control?”
Hosts
Guest
cleveland browns
organization
coach riz
person
jp
person
deshaun watson
person
shaudour sanders
person
todd monken
person
diana rossini
person
mike vrabel
person
miles garrett
person
brady quinn
person
Does Todd Monken Already Have a Favorite at Quarterback?
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 16m • 3/31/2026
Are the Browns Trying To Throw Everyone Off the Scent With QB Competition?
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 15m • 3/31/2026
Quick Hits: Aaron Rodgers heading back to Pittsburgh?
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 12m • 3/31/2026
What's more compelling: Shohei Ohtani vs. Guardians or LeBron James vs. Cavaliers
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 16m • 3/31/2026
Joe DeLeone: Browns can leverage the No. 6 pick if Jeremiyah Love is still available; I’d rather wait until No. 24 to draft a WR
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 16m • 3/31/2026
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