Shedeur Sanders might take the field earlier than anticipated in Cleveland.
Dan Orlovsky from ESPN mentioned on “Get Up” that Sanders fits perfectly with Kevin Stefanski’s play-action offense, which the Browns were already familiar with.
“If this crime is being committed under Stefanski, then rumors about at least a few years ago are perfect for it,” Orlovsky noted.
He pointed out that Sanders excels at managing the line of scrimmage, emphasizing the importance of quick decision-making. “He’s tailor-made for that,” he added.
Orlovsky views Sanders as a more traditional pro-style quarterback, using the run game strategically to dismantle defenses.
“The way he processes information—seeing it on the board, then translating it into practice—is impressive,” he said.
While the Browns initially implemented play-action on 25.5% of passing plays during Stefanski’s debut season in 2020, that figure dropped sharply to 18.3% by 2024, with Watson and Jameis Winston mostly at the helm.
Even though Cleveland drafted Dillon Gabriel at No. 94, they opted for Sanders at No. 144, despite having veterans like Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett in the picture.
Peter Schrager remarked that Sanders, coached by his father Deion Sanders, faced challenges that may have affected his draft stock, such as not having an agent or attending the NFL combine.
Last season, only 13 teams carried three quarterbacks into their first 53-man rosters, making this quarterback situation one to watch closely over the summer.
Still, Orlovsky believes that the former Colorado quarterback has a legitimate shot at getting playing time, even with him being picked at No. 144.
Watson might miss the entire season following several surgeries on his right Achilles tendon. Despite having a significant cap hit of $35.9 million, the team is searching for a starting option.
Pickett aims to make the most of his guaranteed contract this year, whereas Flacco’s manageable cap hit of $2.85 million makes him a potential trade candidate if he doesn’t secure his spot.
Sanders and Gabriel are expected to contend for a position on the practice squad during camp.
