Shedeur Sanders’ Tyler Huntley Comment Surfaces Amid Browns QB Decision

In a decision that has sent shockwaves through the NFL community, the Cleveland Browns have made the stunning move to release quarterback Tyler Huntley as part of their final roster cuts ahead of the 2025 regular season. The move leaves the team’s quarterback room looking vastly different than anticipated, with a mix of veteran experience and highly-touted rookie talent.

The announcement, first reported by credible sports news outlets, confirms that Huntley, the only Pro Bowl quarterback on the Browns’ roster, did not make the final 53-man squad. This unexpected development means the team will move forward with Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, rookie Dillon Gabriel, and another rookie, Shedeur Sanders, as their signal-callers.

Why Did the Browns Release Tyler Huntley?

This is the question dominating sports talk shows and fan forums. The decision is particularly surprising given Huntley’s proven experience and his status as a former Pro Bowl selection. NFL analysts suggest the move is a significant gamble by the front office and head coach Kevin Stefanski, indicating a strong desire to invest heavily in developing their younger options. By keeping four quarterbacks but moving on from Huntley, the Browns are prioritizing the potential of their rookie acquisitions over a known, reliable quantity. This strategy suggests a long-term vision, albeit one that carries immediate risk for the upcoming season.

The release brings into sharp focus the preseason performances that likely influenced the coaching staff’s difficult choice. Statistical analysis from the preseason games shows Dillon Gabriel emerged as the most efficient passer of the group, completing 25 of 37 attempts for 272 yards. Veteran Joe Flacco also looked sharp in limited action. In contrast, Shedeur Sanders, while showing flashes of the talent that made him a college star, faced considerable pressure and had a more challenging preseason outing.

What This Means for the Browns’ QB Future

The release fundamentally reshapes the hierarchy within the Browns’ quarterback room. The competition for the starting job now appears to be primarily between the consistency of veteran Joe Flacco and the promising preseason showing of Dillon Gabriel. The decision to keep Shedeur Sanders, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, indicates the organization is committed to his development as a project for the future, valuing his high ceiling over Huntley’s established floor.

The human element of this business decision is also poignant. Just days before the cut, rookie Shedeur Sanders was publicly praising Huntley, calling himself “blessed” to have him as a mentor and highlighting the “great lessons” he had learned from the veteran quarterback. Sanders’ heartfelt comments, now resurfacing, add a layer of emotional complexity to the Browns’ cold, calculated roster move.

The Browns’ audacious decision to release Tyler Huntley is a high-stakes bet on their future, prioritizing untested potential over proven performance. While the move clarifies the quarterback depth chart, it places immense pressure on the shoulders of Joe Flacco and rookie Dillon Gabriel to deliver immediately. For the Cleveland Browns, the 2025 season just became a defining chapter in their ongoing quest for stability at the sport’s most critical position. Follow official NFL channels for all upcoming game announcements.

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Must Know

Who did the Browns keep instead of Tyler Huntley?
The Cleveland Browns opted to keep quarterbacks Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders on their 53-man roster. The decision to carry four quarterbacks while releasing a proven veteran like Huntley is considered highly unusual in the NFL.

Why was Tyler Huntley cut?
While the Browns organization has not released a specific statement, NFL analysts believe the decision was based on a combination of factors. These include a desire to develop younger talent, salary cap considerations, and the strong preseason performance of rookie Dillon Gabriel, which made Huntley expendable.

Is Joe Flacco the Browns starting QB now?
With Tyler Huntley released, Joe Flacco is the most experienced quarterback on the roster and is the presumed leader to start Week 1. However, the exceptional preseason play of Dillon Gabriel has likely earned him serious consideration, potentially setting up a quarterback competition.

Did Shedeur Sanders make the Browns team?
Yes, despite a challenging preseason, rookie Shedeur Sanders did make the Cleveland Browns’ final 53-man roster. The team is investing in his long-term development, and he is expected to serve as a backup while learning from the veterans in the room.

What is Tyler Huntley’s NFL future?
As a former Pro Bowl quarterback with starting experience, Tyler Huntley is expected to be a highly sought-after free agent. Several teams in need of a reliable backup or even a bridge starter will likely be interested in signing him following his surprising release from Cleveland