Browns name Shedeur Sanders starting QB against Raiders due to Gabriel's concussion protocol
Shedeur Sanders will make his first NFL start as the Cleveland Browns face off against the Las Vegas Raiders this weekend.
Why it matters: This transition comes as a critical moment for both Sanders and the Browns, who are looking for stability at the quarterback position amid injury woes.
- With Dillon Gabriel in concussion protocol, the Browns have turned to Sanders, their 144th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, to step into the role.
- The team has struggled with a 1-4 record in games started by Gabriel prior to his injury, making this an important opportunity for Sanders to showcase his potential.
What’s new: Sanders' promotion to starter marks a significant milestone in his career, as he becomes the 42nd quarterback to start for the Browns since the franchise's return in 1999.
- His debut saw him complete just 4 of 16 passes for 47 yards with one interception, raising questions about his readiness for the upcoming challenge.
- Despite a rocky start in his initial appearance, Sanders impressed during the preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers, completing 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns.
Yes, but: While Sanders has shown flashes of talent, there remains uncertainty about his ability to lead a struggling Browns offense effectively.
- Kevin Stefanski acknowledged that Sanders had not taken snaps alongside the starting offense until his debut, suggesting a steep learning curve ahead.
- In contrast, the Browns’ offensive line must bolster its performance to shield Sanders from pressure; he was sacked twice in his last outing.
What to watch: Fans should pay attention to how the Browns' coaching staff adapts their game plan to accommodate Sanders' strengths.
- Given his dual-threat capability, including rushing ability demonstrated in the preseason, the Browns may integrate more spread concepts that allow him to exploit mismatches.
- Additionally, the effectiveness of the run game could prove pivotal in easing Sanders' transition into the starting role.
The bottom line: As Shedeur Sanders steps into the spotlight, all eyes will be on whether he can seize this opportunity to solidify his place as a viable NFL quarterback.
- With pressures mounting from both the fan base and the media, the outcome of this game against the Raiders could shape the narrative surrounding his future with the team.
- Furthermore, as Deion Sanders, his father and a Pro Football Hall of Famer, watches closely, this debut carries not only professional implications but personal significance as well.
