Browns HC Todd Monken didn’t hold back about potential steal of the draft Cleveland was able to land after seeing him practice
Cleveland Browns found a potential big time steal in the second-round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Todd Monken dropped a big time quote about the defensive newcomer.
The Cleveland Browns have been taking part in rookie minicamp this weekend and it’s been the first look at the 10 new rookies the team recently selected.
Cleveland is getting these guys in and ramping up with some install work, 11-on-11s, as well as 7-on-7 reps. One of the rookies who has been catching attention is S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren. The Toledo product is potentially a huge steal for the Browns at No. 58 overall.
Browns HC Todd Monken says the sky is the limit for rookie S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren
Cleveland didn’t have a big need at safety at least this season, but they do in the future with both Grant Delpit and Ronnie Hickman set to be free agents after the season. McNeil-Warren has impressed this weekend with his 6-foot-3, 200-pound frame he brings to the field.
The Browns’ first-year head coach was asked what he’s seen from McNeil-Warren so far, and his response is a good one.
“What you guys see, which is long, fast, anticipating, being physical, got unbelievable range again,” Monken stated. “He’s another one of those guys who has a smile on his face every day, loves football. It’s what we saw when we met with him at the Combine, when he came here. Like I think the sky’s the limit. He wants to be an elite football player, and he goes about it the right way every day.”
The Browns very well could move McNeil-Warren around multiple safety spots as a rookie. As the defensive newcomer gets more comfortable, the Browns will put more on his play. McNeil-Warren is better in the box with both his coverage and run blocking ability. He’s a guy who finds a contact and his length is a positive for the defense.
Cleveland was debating on taking either McNeil-Warren or Denzel Boston at the No. 39 overall selection in the second round. Getting both players was a strong outcome for the Browns, and they potentially landed difference makers on both sides of the football.
McNeil-Warren’s professional approach is already being seen by the coaches in a short time. Monken may be in his first season as a head coach, but he’s a veteran coach at both the NFL and college levels. If he’s saying the sky is the limit for McNeil-Warren, it’s worth noting.