Watch the NFL Preseason free stream today to catch Shedeur Sanders' debut with the Browns in their preseason opener.
Cleveland Browns Set to Kick Off Preseason Against Carolina Panthers
The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for their first game of the 2025 NFL preseason, scheduled for Friday, Aug. 8, at 7 p.m. ET against the Carolina Panthers. The game will be broadcast on NFL Network and can be live-streamed on NFL+, the league's official streaming service.
The Browns have seen some changes in their quarterback position, with Joe Flacco, the projected starting quarterback this season, sitting out the preseason opener. Instead, Stefanski has confirmed that Shedeur Sanders will start for the Browns. Sanders, who fell to the fifth round of the NFL draft despite winning the 2024 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm award, has been taking reps with the second team due to increased opportunities caused by injuries. His recent shoulder soreness is no longer an issue.
Tyler Huntley, the latest addition to the Browns, is still learning the playbook, and his participation in the game is uncertain. If he can get up to speed with the playbook, Huntley might see some action.
Meanwhile, Carolina's starters are expected to play one or two series against the Browns. Panthers coach Dave Canales announced a change in the starting quarterback position, with Bryce Young set to start against the Browns, unlike last year.
The teams will face off at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, with both teams holding a joint practice prior to the game. Fans looking to watch this game live can tune in to NFL Network on TV or use NFL+ for live streaming on mobile devices or supported streaming platforms, which broadcast all out-of-market preseason games live.
For those interested in audio coverage, local radio stations like 850 ESPN Cleveland and Browns.com may provide coverage. However, for preseason video, NFL Network and NFL+ are the key platforms to watch. A full game replay or highlights may be found on platforms like YouTube after the game's conclusion.
Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel will not play due to injuries and will be rehabbing. Stefanski has not revealed who will be the backup quarterback for the Browns in the preseason opener. Young expressed excitement about the opportunity to play more in the preseason this year. Pickett and Gabriel were scheduled to participate in 7-on-7 drills but not team drills due to injuries.
The Browns are looking to build on their success from last season, and this preseason opener against the Panthers is a crucial step towards their goal. Fans are eagerly anticipating the game, and with the official viewing options in place, the countdown to the game has begun.
The Cleveland Browns are preparing to play their first match of the 2025 NFL preseason, which involves a clash with the Carolina Panthers on Friday, Aug. 8, and this American-football game will be broadcast on NFL Network. Shedeur Sanders, the fifth-round draft pick who won the 2024 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm award, will perhaps start for the Browns, as their projected starting quarterback, Joe Flacco, will miss the preseason opener. Meanwhile, the Panthers' new starting quarterback, Bryce Young, is expected to play against the Browns in football, unlike last year.