Browns to Give Shedeur Sanders Extended Look as Starting Quarterback

The Cleveland Browns are making a significant change at quarterback. Rookie Shedeur Sanders will start this Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. This move comes after an injury to previous starter Dillon Gabriel. The team plans to use these final games to evaluate their young quarterback.According to ESPN, the Browns are open to giving Sanders an extended audition. This is not just a one-week fill-in role. The team wants to see if he can be their long-term answer under center.

Sanders Shows Promise in Limited Action

Sanders made his NFL debut against the Ravens on November 16. He completed just four of 16 passes in that game. His performance improved markedly in his second appearance.He helped lead the Browns to a 24–10 win over the Raiders last Sunday. Sanders completed 11 of 20 passes for 209 yards. He threw one touchdown and one interception, showing clear progress.

A Crowded Quarterback Room Thins Out

The Browns began the season with a four-way quarterback competition. Sanders was battling Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Kenny Pickett. The situation has clarified significantly in recent weeks.Both Flacco and Pickett now play for other teams. Gabriel remains on the roster but is currently injured. This leaves Sanders as the clear choice for the starting role.The Colorado product was a surprise fifth-round pick in April’s NFL draft. He finished eighth in Heisman Trophy voting last year while playing for the Buffaloes. His famous father, Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, has long made him a public figure.

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The Browns’ decision to start Shedeur Sanders represents a pivotal shift in their season strategy. This extended look at their rookie quarterback could define the team’s direction for years to come. The Shedeur Sanders era in Cleveland appears to be beginning in earnest.

Info at your fingertips

Who did Shedeur Sanders replace as the Browns’ starter?

Shedeur Sanders took over after an injury to quarterback Dillon Gabriel. He made his debut against the Baltimore Ravens on November 16. The team has decided to stick with him even as others recover.

How did Sanders perform in his first start?

His first game was a struggle, completing only four passes. He looked much better in his second game against the Raiders. Sanders threw for 209 yards and a touchdown in that victory.

What other quarterbacks were competing for the job?

The Browns had a four-way battle in training camp. Sanders competed with Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Kenny Pickett. Both Flacco and Pickett have since been traded to other teams.

Where was Sanders drafted from?

The Cleveland Browns selected Sanders in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He played his college football at the University of Colorado. Sanders was a Heisman Trophy finalist during his final college season.

Why is this start significant for the Browns?

The team is using these final games to evaluate their future at quarterback. This is more than just a temporary replacement for an injured player. Cleveland wants to see if Sanders can be their franchise quarterback moving forward.