Cleveland Browns Name Shedeur Sanders Starting Quarterback

Shedeur Sanders has officially been named the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns as of Sunday. He will make his NFL debut against the Las Vegas Raiders, stepping in for Dillon Gabriel, who is out due to a concussion. Excitement was palpable for Sanders as he approached Wednesday’s practice.

“It’s going to be exciting,” he shared. “A lot of people are going to be there. You can’t miss this moment. We’re prepared and focused. I can’t wait.”

Head coach Kevin Stefanski is doing his best to ensure the fifth-round pick feels “comfortable” in this new role. “We want him to be confident in what he’s doing,” he explained. “After working with him for months, we want to emphasize what fits him best.”

Last week, Sanders had limited action, making his first appearance since preseason but facing challenges due to a shoulder injury. He completed only four of 16 attempts and threw an interception, which left him feeling uneasy. “I’m my own biggest critic,” Sanders remarked. “Mistakes? Sure, but not that many. We try to minimize them.”

Stefanski noted that Sanders is actively involved in brainstorming with other quarterbacks and taking extensive notes. “The more time spent together, the better,” he added. Watching game footage is a critical part of preparation for any quarterback, and Sanders is fully engaged in that process.

Sanders expressed that he has gained “a ton” of knowledge through interactions with Stefanski and the coaching staff, but emphasized that actual on-field practice is where he truly learns. “I need to feel the game,” he said. “It takes detailed work for me to perform my best, and I’m totally committed.”

When asked whether a strong performance against the Raiders could secure his position, both coaches and Sanders agreed on focusing solely on the upcoming game. “I don’t want to rush and miss important details,” he expressed. Once a highly sought-after prospect, Sanders now finds himself as the fifth-round pick, yet he remains hopeful.

As the 42nd starting quarterback for the Browns since their return to Cleveland in 1999, Sanders understands the expectations. “Our fans want to see success, and if I don’t feel like I can deliver that, I’d be letting everyone down,” he said. “I’ve prepared thoroughly and thrive under pressure.”

“I’m excited about everything,” he concluded. “The game must speak for me.”