Shedeur Sanders Takes a Backseat in Browns Practice

Shedeur Sanders has been spotted holding a clipboard instead of joining the action at Browns practice, according to reports.

ESPN Cleveland’s Tony Rizzo mentioned on Thursday that the much-discussed third-string quarterback hasn’t even participated in the scout team activities. “I’ve heard that Shedeur isn’t running with the scout team; he’s just observing,” Rizzo commented. But he raised a question: “Why is he even on the team? Is it just about jersey sales? It’s puzzling.”

Sanders seems to have generated a lot of attention as the league’s most talked-about third-string quarterback, apart from perhaps Tommy DeVito, a former Giants backup.

Typically, third-string quarterbacks are there to back up the starters and don’t usually have a designated practice role.

Rizzo further noted that the Browns have instead shifted their focus towards Bailey Zappe, the fourth-year veteran, rather than preparing Sanders to mirror their upcoming opponent’s style, particularly with Cincinnati’s Joe Burrow and Baltimore’s Lamar Jackson on the horizon.

It seems the team has its reasons for wanting Zappe to lead the scout team, even as they reflect on what might be happening with Sanders. After a pre-season filled with ups and downs, Sanders hasn’t leap-frogged Gabriel in the depth chart, who remains above him.

Despite the limited playing time, Sanders’ marketability remains high; he had the fifth-best-selling jersey from March to July, outpacing not only his rookie peers but also rankings that include noted names like Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts.