On Thursday, Mary Kay Cabot, a prominent Cleveland Browns reporter, weighed in on the team’s quarterback future, focusing particularly on Malik Willis as a potential option. Speaking on The Ken Carman Show, Cabot highlighted Browns general manager Andrew Berry and new head coach Todd Monken’s openness to adding a new quarterback, suggesting Willis could be a strategic acquisition despite him being relatively unproven at the NFL level. The Browns appear to be exploring alternatives amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding Shedeur Sanders’ role moving forward.
“I would definitely be looking at Malik Willis. He’s somebody I said the Browns should draft in 2022. We know Todd Monken prefers a dual threat QB…It’s very interesting both him and Andrew Berry are definitely open to bringing someone else in,”
Mary Kay Cabot, Reporter
Evaluating Malik Willis as a Better Fit Than Shedeur Sanders
Malik Willis is expected to be a sought-after quarterback in the upcoming free agency period, with market projections estimating a two-year deal worth approximately $71 million, averaging $35.5 million per season. Despite such a valuation, his NFL resume raises questions. Willis has appeared in 22 games over four seasons split between the Tennessee Titans and Green Bay Packers, starting only six contests. His career stats include a modest total of six touchdown passes and a late emergence with his first touchdown recorded in his third year, primarily backing Jordan Love.
Given the Browns’ existing contract commitments, including the $230 million guaranteed to Deshaun Watson, and multiple promising quarterbacks already under team control, skepticism surrounds the idea of investing heavily in Willis. Many argue Willis does not currently outmatch Shedeur Sanders, who has already navigated a tumultuous debut with Cleveland.
Fan Backlash Against the $35M Proposal for Malik Willis
The majority of Browns fans have expressed disapproval and disbelief at the notion of signing Willis for such a high sum. Many viewed Cabot’s proposal as unrealistic and an unnecessary complication in the quarterback situation. Social media reactions ranged from confusion to outright frustration at what some see as Cleveland’s tendency to mishandle its quarterback strategy.
“So the Browns should spend like $35M a year on Willis while they’re already gonna be spending $46M on Deshaun Watson,”
Anonymous User on X
This viewpoint reflects a larger irritation among fans towards persistent rumors that undermine Shedeur Sanders’ value and progression. The Cleveland media is often criticized for generating misleading narratives, which contribute to unrest among the fanbase. Still, some supporters believed in Cabot’s informed perspective.
“Been saying this. He’s the best option if they decide to bring another QB in,”
Browns Fan
Calls for Patience and Development of Shedeur Sanders
Beyond the divisive opinions, a strong contingent of Browns fans advocates for patience with Sanders as the team’s starting quarterback. The emphasis here is on building a strong supporting cast through improving the offensive line and wide receiver corps rather than pursuing high-priced alternatives. Many see this approach as the way to foster long-term success and stability rather than perpetuating quarterback competition and confusion.
“I think we need to let Shedeur be the QB1 next season. Build an OL and WRs around him and let him develop,”
Browns Fan
“We gotta start learning to be patient with QBs.”
Browns Fan
Conversely, some fans lament the Browns’ reputation for questionable decisions in their quarterback room and doubt that the franchise will resist chasing new options rather than committing fully to Sanders.
“Good luck with that…yep be stupid and focus on another QB. When you should be focusing on a new line and WRs. But history says the Browns know better,”
Disappointed Fan
“Typical Browns media/fans idiocy Willis STINKS. So he had a good fill-in game? So what? He’s a backup for a good reason. Better to just go with more Shedeur and see if Monken can develop him,”
Pro-Sanders Supporter
Unlikelihood of Malik Willis Joining Cleveland Browns
Despite the media buzz, many believe Willis’ arrival in Cleveland remains doubtful. Observers note that Willis and Deshaun Watson share the same agent, casting doubt on Willis being within budget constraints. Popular belief holds that Willis will likely sign with teams like the New York Jets or Miami Dolphins rather than the Browns.
“Deshuan and Malik have the same agent and Malik is definitely out of the budget. Mary will be reaching,”
Browns Follower
“Last thing we need is another mediocre QB to add to the QB room chaos,”
NFL Fan
Meanwhile, Shedeur Sanders appears to have solidified his position as the Browns’ starting quarterback heading into the 2026 season. Todd Monken made a point of meeting Sanders personally immediately upon joining the team, signaling clear intent to support his development. This focus contrasts with the ongoing media attempts to create turmoil around the quarterback situation, which some critics see as detrimental to the team’s cohesion and future prospects.
