Shedeur Sanders Set to Start First Preseason Game

Shedeur Sanders, currently the fourth string on the unofficial Browns depth chart, is poised to make his first preseason start on Friday night against the Carolina Panthers. This comes as both Kenny Pickett and rookie Dillon Gabriel are sidelined with hamstring injuries.

On Tuesday, Sanders shared that he’s anticipated to take the field as the starting quarterback, noting that he prefers not to have his father, Dion Sanders—head coach of Colorado Buffalo—watch him play just yet. However, the veteran coach will certainly have a front-row seat for the game.

“I don’t want him to get a couple’s rep. He cheers me on like a good dad would,” Sanders remarked, indicating that now is not the time for pride. He’s aware of the road ahead and the work still required to achieve his goals.

Having a legendary NFL father is, as Sanders described, both “a gift and a curse.” On one hand, there’s the legacy to uphold; on the other, the pressure to perform. “Everyone knows who he is, and that changes the dynamic,” he reflected.

Nevertheless, this opportunity is crucial for Sanders to showcase his abilities within the Browns’ offense. With coach Kevin Stefanski not wanting to risk injury to the estimated starting quarterback, Joe Flacco, a 40-year-old veteran, Sanders gets his chance.

The Browns have also signed Tyler Huntley due to the injuries affecting Pickett and Gabriel, but it’s unclear how that will affect Sanders’ playtime.

It’s worth noting that in practice against the starting Browns defense, which recently demonstrated some toughness over four snaps, Sanders might face challenges with chemistry alongside notable teammates like Jerry Judy and Dionta Johnson, given the limited opportunities to connect.

His accuracy, however, has been a highlight during training camp, a skill he’s honed while playing under his father at Colorado. So far, he seems to be carrying that momentum into camp in Ohio.

With all eyes on the preseason matchup, Sanders understands the importance this game holds for his future. After all, Gabriel was drafted in the third round—there’s quite a bit at stake here.

Additionally, Sanders did have to take a brief step back during practice last Saturday due to arm pain, but he fully participated on Monday. This positivity suggests he’ll be ready to show the Browns—and the rest of the league—what he can accomplish at this level.