Shedeur Sanders Injury Update: Browns Rookie QB Nears Return, Preseason Status Clarified

The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback room, a focal point of intense preseason scrutiny, received a significant dose of optimism this week. Rookie Shedeur Sanders, who had been sidelined with an oblique injury, returned to the practice field, signaling a potential and timely boost to the team’s offensive depth ahead of the regular season.

Sanders, who impressed with two touchdown passes in the preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers, was held out of the subsequent game against the Philadelphia Eagles. His absence raised questions about his availability and where he might fit into the team’s plans. However, his participation in Wednesday’s practice session offered the most concrete sign yet that his recovery is on a positive trajectory, providing a key update on the Shedeur Sanders injury situation.

How Does the Shedeur Sanders Injury Impact the Browns’ QB Depth Chart?

The return of the former Colorado standout immediately reshuffles the deck behind veteran starter Joe Flacco. The team’s current depth chart officially lists Flacco, followed by Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and then Sanders. However, this hierarchy appears fluid, especially with Pickett also managing a hamstring issue that will keep him out of the final preseason contest against the Los Angeles Rams.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the media, offering cautious optimism regarding Sanders’ progress without committing to a specific timeline. He noted that the medical and coaching staff would evaluate how the quarterback responded to the increased activity before making any decisions about his participation in upcoming games. This evaluation period is critical for determining if Sanders can challenge for the primary backup role or solidify his position as the third quarterback.

A Developing Competition for the Backup Role

The situation has effectively ignited a quiet competition between the two rookies, Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, for positioning. With Pickett sidelined, Gabriel received the start against the Eagles and is poised to start again in the preseason finale. The Oregon product brings a impressive collegiate resume to the field, boasting significant experience and production that makes him a serious contender for the QB2 role.

Gabriel himself has adopted a poised approach, emphasizing staying present and competing one play at a time rather than focusing on the depth chart politics. His performance under center against the reigning Super Bowl champions will be heavily scrutinized, as a strong showing could solidify his spot regardless of Sanders’ health. This internal competition, spurred by the Shedeur Sanders injury, is ultimately viewed as a positive for the team, pushing both young players to elevate their game.

The positive Shedeur Sanders injury update is a welcome development for the Cleveland Browns, providing much-needed clarity and options at a critical position. His return to practice not only boosts the team’s depth but also intensifies the competition behind Joe Flacco, ensuring the Browns will have a prepared and motivated backup option when the regular season begins. For the latest official updates on player availability, always consult the team’s official injury report.

Must Know

What is Shedeur Sanders’ injury?
Shedeur Sanders is recovering from an oblique injury. This type of core muscle injury can affect a quarterback’s throwing motion and power, which is why the Browns are exercising caution during his rehabilitation process.

Will Shedeur Sanders play in the next preseason game?
His status for the next game remains uncertain. While he has returned to practice, the coaching staff is evaluating his recovery day-to-day. A final decision will be based on how he responds to increased physical activity.

Who is the Browns’ starting quarterback?
Veteran Super Bowl winner Joe Flacco has been named the Cleveland Browns‘ starting quarterback for Week 1 of the 2025 NFL regular season.

How does Dillon Gabriel factor into the QB competition?
Dillon Gabriel, drafted in the third round, is a highly experienced rookie who is currently getting reps with the first-team offense due to injuries to Sanders and Kenny Pickett. He is a direct competitor for the primary backup job.

What did Coach Kevin Stefanski say about Sanders?
Coach Stefanski stated that Sanders is “doing more” in practice and that the team will know more about his status after evaluating how he feels following the increased workload. He described the situation as a daily progression.

Is Kenny Pickett also injured?
Yes, quarterback Kenny Pickett is dealing with a hamstring injury that will prevent him from playing in the team’s final preseason game. His timeline for return is separate from the Shedeur Sanders injury situation.