Browns’ Todd Monken drops mic on mentality behind going for 2 to win in OT

Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken rejected the conventional approach of kicking an extra point during Sunday night's overtime loss to the New Orleans Saints. Instead, Monken opted to go for a two-point conversion, demonstrating his team's determination to secure the victory. After Shedeur Sanders scored the touchdown in overtime, Cleveland needed a successful two-point conversion to tie the game.

Monken chose to take that risk, expressing his preference for a win over a draw. "Tie or lose is what you're saying, if you kick this one, that’s my opinion," he stated, via ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi. "You’re saying tie or lose, and in that moment I said, nah, that’s not me. So we’re gonna go for the win right here, and it’s gonna be win or lose."

Monken's decision reflected his aggressive approach throughout his first season in Cleveland, marked by five fourth-quarter comebacks in the 2026 campaign. However, his overtime gamble ultimately failed, leaving him to emphasize his team's intent to play for victory rather than simply avoid defeat.