Former Colorado Buffaloes star quarterback Shedeur Sanders made a confident and composed NFL preseason debut for the Cleveland Browns, showing why scouts once projected him as a potential first-round pick. Playing against the Carolina Panthers on Friday night, Sanders delivered a performance that combined poise, accuracy, and flashes of dynamic playmaking.
The 6-foot-2 rookie entered a crowded Cleveland quarterback room that already features Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel. Despite the competition, Sanders earned the starting nod for the preseason opener and took full advantage of the opportunity.
Over three quarters of action, Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes (61%) for 138 yards and two touchdowns, finishing with a passer rating of 106.8. He also added 19 rushing yards on four carries and avoided any turnovers, though he did take two sacks. The Browns rolled to a 30–10 victory in a game that may have implications for the team’s quarterback depth chart moving forward.
Shedeur Sanders Stats: How Did the Rookie QB Perform in His NFL Debut?
Sanders’ performance stood out not just on paper but in key moments on the field. His first career NFL touchdown pass came early in the first quarter when he rolled out of the pocket and delivered a pinpoint strike to Kaden Davis in the left corner of the end zone. It was a throw that showcased both his accuracy on the move and his comfort under pressure.
“I wasn’t nervous… I felt like I knew the answers to the test,” Sanders said postgame, as reported by the Akron Beacon Journal. “Did I play up to par? No, but the main goal was to win, and that’s what we did.”
Sanders played with a steady hand, spreading the ball to multiple receivers and making smart reads against Carolina’s defense. His pocket awareness allowed him to extend plays, and his mobility created opportunities on broken plays — a skill that could prove valuable if he sees regular-season action.
Why Shedeur Sanders’ Debut Matters for the Browns
While preseason games often come with tempered expectations, Sanders’ poised performance could spark internal discussions about his role this season. With Joe Flacco bringing veteran stability and Kenny Pickett fighting for a starting job, the Browns may not rush Sanders into a top role. However, his ability to protect the football, operate efficiently, and deliver in red-zone situations will not go unnoticed.
The rookie’s composure also drew attention off the field. NBA superstar LeBron James called him a “young king” on social media, and South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley joined in with her own praise. The buzz around Sanders is growing — and so is speculation about his long-term fit in Cleveland.
Full Shedeur Sanders Box Score vs. Panthers
Completions/Attempts: 14/23
Completion Percentage: 61%
Passing Yards: 138
Passing Touchdowns: 2
Passer Rating: 106.8
Interceptions: 0
Fumbles (Lost): 0
Rushing Yards: 19 (4 carries)
Sacks Taken: 2
What’s Next for Shedeur Sanders and the Browns?
Sanders’ next opportunity could come next Saturday when the Browns face the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. While it remains unclear how much playing time he’ll get, another strong showing could solidify his case for an active roster spot throughout the season.
Shedeur Sanders stats from his NFL debut underline why Cleveland invested a fifth-round pick in the former Colorado standout. His ability to adapt quickly, manage pressure, and make accurate throws may shape his future as a potential starting quarterback in the NFL. If he continues to grow in preseason play, the Browns could find themselves with a promising young leader under center.
You Must Know:
Q1: What were Shedeur Sanders’ stats in his NFL debut?
Shedeur Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns, added 19 rushing yards, and finished with a passer rating of 106.8 in the Browns’ 30–10 win over the Panthers.
Q2: Did Shedeur Sanders throw any interceptions in his first NFL game?
No. Sanders avoided turnovers entirely, throwing zero interceptions and recording no lost fumbles.
Q3: Who did Shedeur Sanders throw his first NFL touchdown pass to?
Sanders’ first NFL touchdown pass went to wide receiver Kaden Davis in the first quarter against the Panthers.
Q4: How did fans and celebrities react to Sanders’ debut?
Notable figures like LeBron James and Dawn Staley praised Sanders on social media, fueling excitement about his NFL future.
Q5: When will Shedeur Sanders play next?
His next scheduled game is against the Philadelphia Eagles in preseason action at Lincoln Financial Field.
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