The Cleveland Browns are navigating questions about their quarterback depth after backup Shedeur Sanders, a fifth-round pick, did not receive a clear designation behind starter Joe Flacco. The club has denied any attempt to sideline Sanders, and the debate has drawn in voices from around the league, including Travis Kelce.
On his podcast The Heights, Kelce weighed in with a strong endorsement for Sanders to play, arguing that the public wants to see him on the field and have a chance to succeed. He stressed that his comments were not a critique of Dillon Gabriel or Flacco, but rather a belief that Sanders would attract attention and energy from fans and could help the Browns’ offense.
Sanders showed promise in his NFL debut for Cleveland, completing 17 passes for 152 yards and two touchdowns without an interception against the Carolina Panthers. In the most recent preseason game, however, he didn’t fare as well, fueling ongoing discussion about how the Browns should balance development with winning right now.
The Browns have publicly stated that Flacco will be the starter, with Dillon Gabriel and Sanders competing for opportunities. Sanders was selected after Gabriel in the draft, and the team’s current plan has them keeping both rookies on the bench behind the veteran quarterback. The decision to start or play Sanders appears to be driven by a blend of performance, development, and the overall strategy to field the best possible team.
What this all means going forward is uncertain, but it underscores a broader conversation about how teams balance opportunity for young quarterbacks with immediate competitive goals. If Sanders receives more game time, it could accelerate his development and generate momentum and fan interest. If not, Cleveland will continue to prioritize proven depth while evaluating the potential long-term upside.
Notes for editors and readers:
– Kelce’s comments reflect a popular viewpoint among fans who want to see Sanders tested in meaningful action.
– Sanders’ preseason performance remains a talking point for how the Browns will allocate snaps in the regular season.
– The Browns’ stated plan is to use Flacco as the starter while evaluating Sanders and Gabriel behind him.
Summary: The Browns are weighing opportunity for Shedeur Sanders against traditional quarterback depth, with Kelce urging that Sanders be given a chance to play, consistent with the club’s public stance that competition and development guide their approach.
Potential next steps to watch:
– Whether Sanders gets additional game reps in upcoming preseason or early regular-season opportunities.
– How the Browns balance development with the needs of a roster aiming to win now.
– Fan and media reaction as the team approaches its final decisions on the depth chart.
Overall, the situation presents a hopeful path for Sanders if the team chooses to give him more reps, while still aligning with Cleveland’s focus on fielding a competitive roster.