Browns rookie Sanders shines in preseason

A strong preseason showing by the Browns rookie quarterback signals continued competition for the starting job.

Shedeur Sanders fires two TD passes for Browns in preseason outing

In Friday's preseason game, Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns. He guided nine series that produced three touchdown drives, not counting a kneel down before halftime. Sanders left the game with 2:12 remaining in the third quarter, handing over to Tyler Huntley. He connected on a 12-yard and a 7-yard TD pass to Kaden Davis and added 19 rushing yards on four carries.

Sanders' father, Deion Sanders, tweeted his approval during the game. Browns backups Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett and rookie Dillon Gabriel were inactive as Gabriel and Pickett work back from hamstring injuries. The Browns led the Panthers 30-7 late in the fourth.

The performance adds weight to the Browns' QB evaluation, showing Sanders can execute a pro-style game plan with accuracy and mobility. This outing is more about control and confidence than sheer volume, which matters in a competition that will extend into training camp and the preseason slate.

The moment comes with caveats. Cleveland is balancing development with winning now, and the absence of veteran options heightens scrutiny on how the team manages the rotation. If Sanders sustains this level, the debate shifts from potential hype to tangible depth chart movement, drawing attention from fans, media, and front office alike.

Highlights

Momentum in the preseason can fade fast; the next tests will define how this moment lands.