Shedeur Sanders is set to start at quarterback for the Cleveland Browns for the first time this season.
Deshaun Watson has been in concussion protocol and missed practice all week. Coach Todd Monken said Sanders would start, pointing to the rookie’s confidence and comfort running the offense during practice. Monken also said Sanders threw the ball well.
Watson could be cleared from the protocol Saturday, but the Browns plan to start Sanders after Watson missed three days of practice. Sanders appeared for four plays last week when Watson left for a concussion evaluation, completing two passes for a total of two yards. Watson returned after being cleared by an unaffiliated neurotrauma consultant. He began experiencing concussion symptoms Monday night.
Sanders, 24, started Cleveland’s final seven games last season as a rookie. The Browns went 3-4 in those games, and Sanders completed 56.2% of his passes for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Watson won the quarterback competition during training camp.
Sanders said the experience he gained last season has been useful, and that he stayed connected with his teammates through the offseason by continuing to practice and throw with them.
The Browns face the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. New Orleans ranks 28th in total defense and 23rd against the pass. Cleveland, now 5-3, is trying to avoid its first back-to-back losses of the season. The 2-5 Saints are coming off a bye week.
