Why Todd Monken is bad news for Browns' odds to sign free agent QB Malik Willis

The Cleveland Browns are entering the 2026 offseason with some interesting needs to address. While their defense is in a great spot, a few positions could use some help and/or depth.

But, offensively, the Browns need to add wide receiver and offensive line help in a major way. And, while Shedeur Sanders was a Pro Bowler, the Browns might be exploring veteran quarterback options this offseason.

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Browns are a sleeper team for free agent QB Malik Willis from the Green Bay Packers. At least, they were. Todd Monken being hired as the head coach has, in Fowler's words, "might change that equation."

Todd Monken is bad news for Malik Willis-Browns rumors

"The Browns were my sleeper team for Willis," Fowler writes, "but the hiring of Todd Monken might change that equation. He seems open to working with the quarterbacks on the roster, including Shedeur Sanders."

Quarterback depth isn't a terrible idea for the Browns, and while Willis might be the best free agent option for the Browns this offseason, Monken's hiring might take them out of such a market.

His willingness to go with Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, or potentially even Deshaun Watson likely means the Browns won't be in as dire a need for a quarterback.

More: Browns predicted to ditch Shedeur Sanders in favor of trade for $230 million quarterback

Even if the 2026 season doesn't work out for Sanders or whoever the Browns QB is, they're likely to have a high pick in the 2027 NFL Draft, when a lot of top talent is available.

Willis showed some potential this season for the Packers, and there will be serious interest in him this offseason. But, with Monken in Cleveland, the Browns might no longer be as viable a landing spot.

It's too early to cross the Browns off Willis's list of possible landing spots, but the odds don't look great for the Browns to land the intriguing quarterback this offseason.

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