Kevin Stefanski is taking a cautious approach regarding the Browns’ quarterback situation.
After Shedeur Sanders made his preseason debut on Friday night, the Browns’ coach sidestepped inquiries about how this might influence the quarterback competition or if Sanders will receive additional first or second team reps.
“We’re really focused on developing our players; we’re in evaluation mode,” Stefanski remarked. “I’m pleased with where the guys are, but I’m not diving into the quarterback race right now.”
When asked about more reps for starters, he said, “I’m satisfied with how Shedeur plays; the offense looked good.”
The quarterback competition for the Browns is perhaps one of the more intriguing battles in the NFL, especially with Sanders’ involvement.
Being the son of Deion Sanders, he landed unexpectedly in the fifth round, making him arguably the most talented option compared to veterans Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel.
However, being fifth on the depth chart doesn’t typically guarantee a significant role in the competition.
Prior to this game, Sanders hadn’t received any first-team reps during camp, but that changed when he took the lead, competing against Pickett, Gabriel, and Flacco.
His performance was certainly noteworthy, completing 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns, plus adding 19 rushing yards.
“I wasn’t nervous, so there wasn’t much adrenaline,” Sanders said. “It was about getting comfortable. I’ve had plenty of games where I was nervous, but this time I felt like I knew the answers.”
Stefanski highlighted a specific completion from Sanders to receiver Luke Floriaia, calling it “something special.”
“I’m happy with Shedeur and pleased with the overall attack,” he said. “It’s not perfect; we still have work to do, but I thought they did a great job—the execution was solid.”
The Browns are set to face the Eagles next Saturday, and Sanders is expected to get “a lot of reps” in that matchup, as per the coaching staff.
A lingering uncertainty remains regarding whether Pickett and Gabriel will be cleared to play, as this could limit the available reps if Flacco is called to lead the offense.
Reports from ESPN suggest that the Browns are “highly likely” to carry four quarterbacks, which indicates that Sanders is safe for now.
However, with performances like Friday’s, he might push himself into conversations for significant play as the season unfolds.
“The situation was invaluable for Shedeur,” Stefanski noted. “He faced different situations, including a quarterback sneak on third and one. He got plenty of reps in this game, and he’ll see even more next week; it’s all part of developing our young players.”
