The Cleveland Browns came off consecutive disappointing seasons, including a 5-12 finish in 2025. The frustration inspired the franchise to make a major change at the managerial level, hiring Todd Monken as its new head coach ahead of the 2026 campaign.
While Monken has yet to coach a regular-season game in Cleveland, some around the team already believe his presence is changing the atmosphere. His reputation as an emotional, player-friendly leader has reportedly resonated across the locker room during offseason events.
Mary Kay Cabot Believes Todd Monken Is Building A Different Culture
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
Speaking for Cleveland.com, longtime Browns reporter Mary Kay Cabot said Monken’s personality could have a major impact on the team. Cabot, who has covered the Browns since the late 1980s and received the 2025 Bill Nunn Memorial Award, believes players are responding to the new coach’s authenticity.
“I do think that Todd will get plenty out of his players with his style. And not just because he’s old school, but because he’s a warm guy. He wears his emotions on his sleeve and I think the players are really, really going to like that about him.
“I think there’s going to be a very different vibe on the team this year in general, just in terms of the tight knit bond, the ability to express yourself, the ability to express your emotions and just to be closer together as a family unit.”
Mary Kay Cabot of https://t.co/Q57vtHbz1X believes Todd Monken is already changing the Browns’ culture, noting his emotional, old-school coaching style is helping create a tighter, more connected team environment.
“I do think that Todd will get plenty out of his players with his… pic.twitter.com/c1nj4GR97M
— BrownsNation.com (@BrownsNationcom) June 17, 2026
Monken arrived in Cleveland after serving as offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens. Before that, he helped guide the Georgia Bulldogs to back-to-back national championships and established himself as one of football’s most respected offensive minds. For the Browns, hopes are high that leadership can spark a turnaround, especially considering they have missed the playoffs in each of the last two seasons.
Early signs suggest his presence is creating a more connected environment in the locker room. Whether that translates into victories remains to be seen. However, according to Cabot, Cleveland fans can rest assured that the squad already feels different under their new head coach.