Cleveland Browns coach Todd Monken described Shedeur Sanders' response to being named the backup quarterback as "awesome," highlighting the player's understanding of the team's long-term goals.
"You talk about somebody that really understands the long game," Monken told reporters. "That really I think has come to understand the long game. What are we really in this for? What am I in it for? To have the Browns be an organization that people aspire to be. The long game. Where do we want to be in the long term? He understands that as well as a quarterback."
Monken added that Sanders maintained a positive demeanor following the decision to place Deshaun Watson ahead of him for the Week 1 matchup against the Jaguars. Sanders, who joined the Browns after falling in the draft last year, has drawn significant attention since his arrival in the NFL, following a successful college career.
During the preseason, Sanders completed nine passes for 74 yards, one touchdown, one interception, and rushed for two yards. According to Monken, Sanders' positive outlook stems from his perspective on his development and the team's future.
"All he had was a smile on his face cause he understands what really is in front of him," Monken said. "Not really short maybe long-term decision. He’s going to work his butt off to get better and he has already."
Meanwhile, Watson, who will lead the offense to start the season, recently apologized to Cleveland fans after calling them "disrespectful" for booing him during a preseason game. Watson stated that his emotions got the best of him and his comments were not intended to target the fanbase, acknowledging the support he has received from the community.
