Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders turned heads in his preseason debut against the Carolina Panthers, completing 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns to signal that he has real potential for the quarterback room in Cleveland. The outing, played at Bank of America Stadium, sparked early chatter about where Sanders might fit on the depth chart, even though the Browns have been careful about making any official move.
A moment that seemed to settle rumors about internal pressure came when Browns GM Andrew Berry was caught on video on Sanders’ sideline after the game. Berry offered encouragement, telling Sanders, “Really, really good job. I’m proud of you. Really really nice job.” Sanders responded with a light joke about Berry not being fully proud, to which Berry gave a measured, constructive reply: the performance wasn’t perfect, but Sanders made plays and operated within the game plan. The takeaway Berry emphasized was straightforward: learn from the night, apply it in joint practices, and build toward the next preseason game.
Sanders will get his next chance to show what he’s learned, but he isn’t slated to play this weekend against the Philadelphia Eagles due to an oblique strain. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski explained that the issue is more troublesome for a quarterback than for a position that can push through certain minor injuries, noting it will keep Sanders out for a stretch while they assess the best path forward.“If it’s a right guard, you can play through that. When it’s a quarterback, you kind of need that muscle to throw,” Stefanski said, per Pro Football Talk. The team plans to roll with Dillon Gabriel, the Oregon product taken in the third round, as Sanders’ potential substitute this weekend.
Gabriel’s performance this weekend could influence Sanders’ trajectory in the short term. If Gabriel struggles, there would be a clearer opening for Sanders to climb the depth chart as the preseason progresses. The Browns have already shown a willingness to evaluate their options and prioritize a long-term view for both veterans and young signal-callers.
What stands out from Sanders’ debut is a positive tone surrounding his readiness and adaptability. His two touchdowns demonstrated his ability to distribute the ball and make plays after the catch, while Berry’s on-field support underscored the organization’s confidence in his development. In the broader context of training camp, Sanders’ showing provides a hopeful narrative for Browns fans who want to see a young passer push for meaningful reps without forcing the issue.
Additional context and value:
– The Browns are balancing development with performance, aiming to maximize Sanders’ growth while protecting him from unnecessary risk during the early preseason stages.
– The competition with Gabriel adds an intriguing layer to Cleveland’s quarterback room ahead of the regular season, offering the team a potential internal spark if either player seizes the moment.
– If Sanders continues to refine his decision-making and timing in joint practices and future preseason games, the team could chart a gradual, merit-based path toward increased responsibilities for the rookie.
Summary: Sanders delivered an encouraging performance in his preseason debut, prompting discussion about his placement in Cleveland’s depth chart while the team navigates an oblique injury. Berry’s supportive message and Sanders’ composed response reflect a shared focus on growth, practice, and the next game. The upcoming weeks will determine whether Sanders can ascend as a legitimate option behind the starting QB, with Gabriel’s development serving as a counterbalance to the optimistic early impression.