Hour 3: Could Deshaun starting be what’s best for Shedeur? + Todd Monken on working with QBs

Afternoon Drive on The Fan37mApril 8, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

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.

Key Takeaways
1

The best quarterback should start if they’re the best player, regardless of past baggage or narrative.

2

Player-driven accountability is more powerful than coach-driven decisions in elite teams.

3

A clean slate in a new system allows for fair evaluation of quarterbacks beyond past performance.

4

Sitting a proven veteran to develop a rookie can damage the rookie’s perception and career trajectory.

5

Leadership is earned through performance and consistency, not just reputation or experience.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
4 min

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.

4:10
8 min

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?

Highlight
11:40
10 min

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.

Highlight
21:40
8 min

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.

Highlight
30:00
7 min

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.

High-Impact Quotes
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.
Todd Monken34:02
Viral: 90.0
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.
Coach Riz22:26
Viral: 88.0
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?
Coach Riz17:36
Viral: 85.0
Speakers

Hosts

JPCoach Riz

Guest

Todd Monken
Topics Discussed
quarterback competition95%player-driven culture90%perception vs. performance88%leadership in sports85%offensive system overhaul80%career trajectory of young players78%media narratives and public image75%coaching philosophy70%
People & Brands

cleveland browns

organization

40xPositive

coach riz

person

30xPositive

jp

person

25xPositive

deshaun watson

person

22xMixed

shaudour sanders

person

18xNeutral

todd monken

person

12xPositive

diana rossini

person

8xNeutral

mike vrabel

person

7xNeutral

miles garrett

person

6xPositive

brady quinn

person

5xNeutral

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