Coach Kevin Stefanski of the Browns expresses satisfaction with Shedeur Sanders, but stops short of confirming any alterations to the depth chart
Shedeur Sanders Impresses in NFL Debut with Cleveland Browns
Shedeur Sanders, the rookie quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, made a strong impression in the team's 2025 NFL preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers. On August 8, 2025, Sanders started the game and showcased his potential, completing 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and throwing two touchdown passes.
Sanders' performance was marked by poise, accuracy, and scrambling ability, despite some critiques about arm strength and holding the ball too long. He narrowly avoided an interception when forcing a pass into traffic, but converted a crucial third-and-long inside his own 10-yard line with a precise throw over the middle.
The Browns' rookie quarterback led the team to a 30-10 victory, with both of his touchdowns being caught by wide receiver Kaden Davis. Sanders also added 19 rushing yards on four carries, demonstrating his versatility.
Two weeks before the regular season, Sanders' performance has at least forced the Browns to rethink their quarterback competition. Head coach Kevin Stefanski expressed satisfaction with Sanders' performance, but remains cautious about making immediate changes to the quarterback depth chart, which includes Dillon Gabriel, Kenny Pickett, and Joe Flacco.
Stefanski stated that all future practice will be focused on all players' development. Sanders occasionally retreated too far backward in the pocket, sometimes 10-15 yards, but his ability to avoid turnovers and take only two sacks during his nearly three-quarter outing was commendable.
With Sanders' impressive performance, the Browns signed Tyler Huntley right before the NFL preseason opener. Sanders yielded to Huntley towards the end of the game.
In training camp practices, Sanders continued to perform solidly, maintaining a good touchdown-to-interception ratio. His composure and playmaking against NFL competition have earned positive attention, despite being a fifth-round rookie draft pick.
[1] Cleveland Browns official website: Sanders shines in preseason opener [2] ESPN: Sanders impresses in Browns preseason debut [3] NFL.com: Sanders leads Browns to preseason victory [4] Sports Illustrated: Sanders' strong preseason debut for Browns [5] Cleveland Plain Dealer: Sanders competing for roster spot in Browns quarterback competition
Despite the impressive debut, she encountered a minor concern as she narrowly avoided an interception due to a forced pass into heavy traffic. However, Sanders' prowess was evident as he converted a crucial third-down attempt and demonstrated his versatility by adding 19 rushing yards on four carries. additionally, his adoption of calculated retreats into the pocket, despite occasionally pushing too far back, was commendable in reducing turnovers and sustaining only two sacks during his nearly three-quarter stint. These factors highlight Sanders' skills and potential in American football, particularly in sports like NFL and football, as he continues to compete for a roster spot in Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition.
