Browns' quarterback Shedeur Sanders slated to kick off the preseason against the Panthers, as opening night approaches.
Shedeur Sanders Shines in NFL Preseason Debut
Shedeur Sanders, the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, made a promising start to his NFL career with the Cleveland Browns on August 9, 2025. In a 30-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers, Sanders showcased poise, downfield vision, and clutch play, throwing two touchdown passes.
Entering the preseason game as the Browns’ fourth quarterback, Sanders seized the opportunity due to injuries and rest among other quarterbacks. Veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett sat out, while Dillon Gabriel was sidelined. This unexpected playing time allowed Sanders to lead key drives, particularly excelling in the red zone.
In the game, Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards, demonstrating mobility, pocket poise, patience, and the ability to deliver in tight windows. Despite some imperfect throws and holding the ball too long at times, his overall performance was seen as a positive step.
Sanders' college career at Jackson State and Colorado prepared him well for the NFL. He played in a total of 50 games, throwing for a total of 14,353 yards, scoring 134 touchdowns, and running for 17 more. Sanders completed 1,267 passes out of 1,808 attempts, with 27 interceptions.
The Browns signed free agent Tyler Huntley earlier in the week, but Sanders' impressive debut has positioned him as a notable presence in the Browns' quarterback competition. Though he remains in development, the team continues to evaluate all options.
Carolina coach Dave Canales plans for his starters to play one or two series in the game. Sanders will face the Panthers' first-team defense, providing a challenge for the young quarterback.
Sanders' father, Deion, has spoken with him three times since the draft, offering support and advice. The social media reaction to Sanders' debut was enthusiastic, with endorsements from his father and high-profile figures like LeBron James, adding to the narrative that Sanders is playing for more than just personal success—it is about legacy and belief.
As Sanders approaches the game like a regular season game, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how he progresses in the remaining preseason games and beyond.
- Shedeur Sanders' impressive showing in American football, specifically his NFL preseason debut with the Cleveland Browns, indicates a promising career in the sport, following in his father Deion Sanders' football legacy.
- Amid injuries and rest among other quarterbacks in the Browns' roster, Shedeur Sanders seized the opportunity to command key drives and deliver clutch plays, such as throwing two touchdown passes in a 30-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
- Sanders' college career, split between Jackson State and Colorado, provided him with valuable experience, culminating in a total of 50 games played, 14,353 passing yards, 134 touchdowns, and 17 rushing touchdowns.
- In addition to facing the Panthers' first-team defense during the game, Shedeur Sanders also competes in the Browns' quarterback competition alongside other players, as the team continues to evaluate all options for the regular season.
