Browns evaluate Sanders after standout preseason showing

Shedeur Sanders shines in a preseason showing as Cleveland weighs a crowded quarterback room.

Browns weigh Sanders impact on QB battle after preseason showing

In Friday’s preseason game, Shedeur Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards with two touchdowns and added 19 rushing yards. He played after injuries sidelined multiple teammates, giving him a rare chance to show what he can do in live game action. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski stressed that the focus remains on development and evaluation rather than a formal competition, even as Sanders’ performance adds a new twist to the QB conversation.

Sanders had not been a first-team option in camp, but the roster juggling around injuries and veteran status opened the door for him to run extensive plays. Stefanski noted the offense operated well and highlighted a specific completion to Luke Floriea as a bright moment. Cleveland plans to give Sanders a heavy workload again next week, even as questions linger about how the other quarterbacks on the depth chart — including Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Joe Flacco — will be cleared for action. The team is reportedly considering carrying four quarterbacks, signaling that Sanders cannot be easily dismissed from the lookout for Week 1 against Cincinnati.

The Browns are navigating a delicate balance between protecting a rookie with upside and preserving room for established veterans. Sanders’ outing injects momentum into a quarterback room that already includes a veteran mix, which could influence how the team structures its practices and preseason reps in the coming weeks. Cleveland’s approach—prioritizing development over immediate competition—reflects a long view of roster building rather than a snap judgment for the opening game. If Sanders continues to perform, the organization faces a real decision about how to deploy and reward a fifth-round selection who defied draft expectations.

Beyond raw performance, the situation tests the team’s culture of evaluation. It raises questions about how much development time is appropriate for a quarterback with college pedigree and NFL size but limited pro experience. The Browns’ choice to potentially carry four QBs underscores a broader NFL trend: teams hedging against sudden injuries and season-long pace with more flexible rosters. Public perception will hinge on how quickly Sanders translates these summer gains into meaningful strides during the season.

Highlights

The next weeks will reveal how Cleveland balances potential with practicality as reps and health guide the roster.