Browns new coach is in the spotlight over an old comment.

The Cleveland Browns’ new head coach, Todd Monken, is getting attention because of comments he made about Donald Trump years ago. A post from 2017 shows Monken defending Trump shortly after the 2016 election.

That old post started spreading again this week, just days after the Browns named Monken their 19th full-time head coach. It quickly caught fans’ attention and led to a lot of online debate.

In the post, Monken questioned the criticism aimed at Trump after his election win. He wrote, “Don’t get the Trump hatred. All the man did was run for office and the ELECTORAL COLLEGE voted him in. Is that his fault? Don’t think so!”

Monken made that comment just a few months after Donald Trump became president. At the time, Monken was working as an NFL assistant coach. The post did not get much attention back then, but people started talking about it again after he got the top job in Cleveland.

The Browns officially hired Monken on Wednesday. Team owners finished a three-week search and picked him to replace Kevin Stefanski. Stefanski was fired on January 5 after the team went 5-12.

Monken comes to Cleveland after three seasons as the Baltimore Ravens’ offensive coordinator. He also worked as the Browns’ offensive coordinator in 2019 under Freddie Kitchens. This will be his first time serving as a head coach in the NFL.

Fans React To Old Post From Monken

Todd Monken (Image Credits: Imagn)
The return of Monken’s old message brought strong reactions from Browns fans. Some supporters welcomed the comments and praised their new coach.

One fan wrote, “The Browns have found themselves a great coach!”

Another added, “I know right! Who gives a shit about the Constitution!”

Others showed a very different tone. One critic replied, “Stay in your lane and stay out of politics.”

Another fan joked, “Welp… who are we hiring next offseason Browns fans?”

One supporter even asked, “Where can I purchase a Todd Monken jersey? Thank you in advance.”

The mixed reaction shows how divided sports fans can be about politics. The Browns’ front office has not said anything about the old post.

Monken was chosen over several other candidates. Many analysts thought defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz had a strong shot at the job. Schwartz built one of the NFL’s best defenses and earned a lot of respect around the league.

Cleveland led the NFL in total defense in 2023 and ranked fourth this past season. Star pass rusher Myles Garrett set a team record with 23 sacks.

Schwartz still has one year left on his contract. Reports say he may look for other opportunities after not getting the head coach role.

Since Jimmy and Dee Haslam bought the team in 2012, the Browns have struggled to stay consistent. They have hired seven head coaches in that time, with a combined record of 73-139-1.

Monken now takes over with the task of fixing things. His old social media post has already created some early controversy before his first game as head coach.