The quarterback situation in Cleveland is nearing a resolution, as the Browns are expected to announce their starting QB later this week.
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski informed the media that the starter for the first week has been decided, aiming to use the remaining season as a sort of rehearsal before facing the Bengals on September 7th.
“We’ll name the starters,” Stefanski stated during a press conference. “That’s coming this week. I expect every player to prepare as if they were a starter, regardless of their actual role. I know the players well, and that’s how they operate.”
The Browns have brought in four primary quarterbacks for training camp this summer, including Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Chedure Sanders. Additionally, Tyler Huntley was signed in August as a response to injury issues.
Sanders was drafted in the fifth round earlier this year, so if he secures a starting or backup position during camp, he could attract significant attention.
Sanders began the Browns’ first preseason game on a high note, but he has recently encountered some struggles. Pickett has faced his own set of injuries, participating only in 7-on-7 drills since late July, which has limited his engagement in 11-on-11 drills.
During a discussion on the possibility of having four quarterbacks on the roster at the season’s start—something not entirely unheard of—Stefanski noted, “I believe we can reassess as we move closer to our final decisions. These discussions happen frequently, but they can be challenging. Ideally, I’d like to keep all players, but that isn’t always feasible.”
The Browns are set to compete against the Rams in the preseason finale this weekend, providing insight into their preparations for the first week’s roster.
“Our focus is on week one,” Stefanski said. “This week is crucial for getting our team ready, and we’ll be finalizing these decisions over the coming days.”
