Browns’ TE Duo Sets Stage for Monken’s Offense

Monken’s Tight‑End Philosophy

Todd Monken arrived in Cleveland after Kevin Stefanski’s departure, bringing a fresh view of the tight‑end position. He values a “multiple, hybrid” attack that blends Air Raid concepts with a power run, relying on motion and adaptable personnel rather than a rigid playbook. Monken’s history shows he adjusts his system to suit the players on hand, a trait he proved with the 1982 Miami Dolphins and later at Georgia.

When the Dolphins hired Don Shula, the unit ranked #3 in the league in rushing behind Tony Nathan and Andra Franklin. After drafting Dan Marino in 1983, the offense pivoted to a prolific pass attack, delivering a 14‑2‑0 regular season. Monken has mirrored that willingness to reshape his scheme around his roster.

At the University of Georgia, Monken’s two‑tight‑end sets anchored an offense that jumped from #49 to #5 in the national rankings over three seasons. Tight ends Brock Bowers and Darnell Washington stayed on the field for more than three‑quarters of every snap, emphasizing blocking and receiving alike. Those players became catalysts for two national championships under Monken’s guidance.

Key Additions: Fannin and Royer

Cleveland returns Harold Fannin, a proven blocker and pass‑catcher, while adding fifth‑round pick Joe Royer from Cincinnati. Royer, a four‑star recruit from Elder High School, transferred to UC after his mother’s sudden passing to stay close to family. He brings a high football IQ, elite ball‑skills (zero drops last year), and the ability to create yards after the catch.

Royer’s skill set draws comparisons to Travis Kelce, despite Kelce being a third‑round selection. His coach at Cincinnati, Josh Stepp, praised Royer’s competitiveness, work ethic, and dependability. Fannin’s experience and Royer’s receiving prowess could form a dangerous partnership for the Browns.

Both players will face stiff competition, with Blake Whiteheart, Brendan Bates, Jack Stoll, and Carsen Ryan already vying for the TE2 role. Training camp will be the proving ground, and the eventual starter is expected to become a focal point of the offense.

Proven Success from College to NFL

Monken’s track record includes turning Maryland’s offense into a national contender, a feat that earned him the Baltimore Ravens’ offensive coordinator job. In Baltimore, his tight ends—Mark Andrews, Isaiah Likely, and Charlie Kolar—thrived under his system. Likely posted a career‑best 13.7 yards per catch while playing for Monken, and Andrews earned a Pro Bowl nod.

Fullback Patrick Ricard, used in place of an injured Likely, posted First‑Team All‑Pro and Second‑Team All‑Pro honors three straight seasons under Monken. Ricard also garnered two Pro Bowl selections during that span. The success of these players underscores Monken’s ability to maximize talent at the position.

When Monken moved to Cleveland, the city’s sports fans already knew his philosophy could elevate a struggling TE room. The Browns’ front office appears confident that the right combination of Fannin and Royer could unlock a new level of offensive efficiency.

Draft Picks and Training‑Camp Battles

Beyond the tight ends, the Browns made notable late‑round selections, including Florida OT Austin Barber and Alabama center Parker Brailsford. Defensive end and former Appalachian State star Justin Jefferson was signed to the practice squad, hinting at a possible role on special teams before transitioning to the defensive line. These additions provide depth and potential upside for a roster rebuilding effort.

Royer’s path to the active roster hinges on his ability to improve in pass protection and run blocking, areas where he admits he received limited work at Cincinnati. Coaches will watch closely during preseason drills to see if he can match the physicality of veteran Whiteheart or the receiving skill of Bates.

Regardless of who ends up as the TE2, Monken has made it clear that two healthy tight ends are essential to his game plan. The Browns’ offensive success in 2025 could rest on this very decision.

What It Means for Cleveland’s Future

If Monken can integrate Fannin’s established presence with Royer’s receiving talent, the Browns will have a versatile set of options that can both protect the quarterback and create mismatches downfield. The offense’s reliance on motion and pre‑snap shifts thrives when tight ends can hold their own in the line. A productive TE duo could free up receivers for deeper routes, keeping defenses guessing.

Historically, Monken’s tenures have turned promising rosters into playoff contenders, and Cleveland’s investment in this group signals a similar ambition. The team’s front office believes that depth at tight end will be a catalyst for improvement, especially if the offensive line can create enough space for these players to excel.

Training camp will be the crucible where Royer’s potential is tested against seasoned veterans. The Browns’ decision here could shape the entire offensive identity for the coming season. If the experiment works, Cleveland fans may soon witness a dynamic TE attack that reflects Monken’s adaptive philosophy.