Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders had a standout performance in his NFL preseason debut, but his position on the team’s quarterback depth chart has remained unchanged.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Sanders is still listed as the No. 4 quarterback on the Browns’ Week 2 depth chart, behind veteran Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel.
Despite his impressive showing against the Carolina Panthers in the preseason opener, Sanders is still facing an uphill battle for a higher spot on the depth chart. The Browns’ coaching staff has made it clear that they are not rushing Sanders into a starting role.
While Flacco and Pickett are set to rest for the upcoming preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sanders will have another opportunity to showcase his skills on the field.
Sanders’ Strong Preseason Debut
In Friday’s preseason opener against the Panthers, Sanders made a solid impression. Playing for just under three quarters, Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns, adding 19 rushing yards for good measure. His performance helped the Browns secure a 30-10 victory, and it caught the attention of coaches and fans alike.
“I’m comfortable with being uncomfortable, so that’s what it is,” Sanders said after the game, reflecting on his ability to perform despite the challenges of playing in the NFL preseason. “I got pockets of finding my rhythm, and I got to get into that quicker, regardless of anything.
But overall, I felt like me out there, and I couldn’t do it, of course, without the time. I couldn’t do it without the playcalling. I couldn’t do it without anything.”
While Sanders showed plenty of promise, he still faces stiff competition. As it stands, Flacco is expected to be the frontrunner for the starting job, with Pickett and Gabriel recovering from hamstring injuries. This has opened up the opportunity for Sanders to start in the preseason, but he has yet to receive reps with the first-team offense during training camp.
The Browns’ Approach with Sanders
Cleveland is taking a cautious approach with Sanders, understanding that he is a rookie and has time to develop before being thrust into a starting role. The team has not rushed Sanders into a prominent role and is allowing him to prove himself with each opportunity he gets.
His performance in the next preseason game against Philadelphia will be another chance to demonstrate his potential.
While Sanders has impressed in his limited action, it’s clear that the Browns are sticking with their veteran quarterbacks for now, particularly Flacco, who has been with the team for a longer period and has more experience in the NFL.
What’s Next for Sanders
As the preseason progresses, Sanders will have more chances to move up the depth chart, particularly if Flacco and Pickett continue to rest or if any other injuries occur.
However, barring a significant shift in the team’s quarterback situation, Sanders is likely to remain at No. 4 for the time being, with the Browns focused on his long-term development rather than rushing him into a starting role.
In the meantime, Sanders will continue to make the most of his opportunities, hoping to prove to the coaching staff that he deserves a more significant role in the future. With his impressive debut performance, the rookie quarterback has certainly earned the chance to keep proving himself in Cleveland’s upcoming preseason games.
