Todd Monken has not coached a regular-season game for the Cleveland Browns. However, the tone around the Browns already feels different.
The Browns wrapped up mandatory minicamp this week, closing the book on Monken’s first offseason program. What followed was a wave of optimism from local observers and players alike, with some even describing the moment as the start of a new chapter for a franchise that has spent years searching for stability.
Todd Monken’s Approach Fuels Optimism After Browns Minicamp
May 8, 2026; Berea, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken talks to the media after rookie minicamp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Monken arrived in the Browns after successful stops with the Baltimore Ravens and the University of Georgia. Over the past few months, his fingerprints have been all over the organization. One moment summed it up. During minicamp, Monken was so vocal in directing players that he reportedly lost his voice. The message remained the same throughout the spring: limit mistakes, stay accountable, and earn everything.
The Browns’ personalities Spencer German and Earl Da Pearl came away impressed by what they saw.
“I think Todd Monken showed you this spring that he is perfect for a young football team that needs to be held accountable.”
“I call it the rebirth of the Cleveland Browns.”
"I think Todd Monken showed you this spring that he is perfect for a young football team that needs to be held accountable. I think Todd Monken truly set the tone for the type of team that he wants to have…"
"I call it the rebirth of the Cleveland Browns"
🚨 @Spencito_ and… pic.twitter.com/2b6dJJhu9c
— 92.3 The Fan (@923TheFan) June 13, 2026
The timing is important. Now that the Browns are entering their transition phase following major changes, like losing their best pass rusher in Myles Garrett, Monken has been very clear about his philosophy of competitiveness and growth.
It’s noticeable enough for the players themselves. Just last week, second-year quarterback Shedeur Sanders referred to the culture around him at the Browns’ minicamp as a “new vibe” and a “new energy.” In the meantime, the battle for the starting job continues between quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel.
In response to external pressure, Monken has consistently said that his concern is straightforward: he just wants the Browns to put in the quarterback who can get them the most points.
There are many unanswered questions left for Cleveland before the first game of the season, especially regarding the state of the team’s offensive line and the unresolved battle between its quarterbacks.
Nevertheless, given how disappointing the past year was for this franchise, there is much talk not about results but rather about culture. That’s not a guarantee of future success. Except after one offseason under Monken, it is clear that Cleveland is trying to establish a different standard.