Within the 2025 NFL preseason opener, Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders made a robust impression regardless of being initially listed because the crew’s fourth-string QB. Thrust into the beginning position on account of hamstring accidents to Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel, and with Joe Flacco resting, Sanders led the Browns to a 30-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers at Financial institution of America Stadium.
Sanders accomplished 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns, each caught by vast receiver Kaden Davis. He added 19 speeding yards on 4 carries, demonstrating mobility and poise. Notably, Sanders averted turnovers and took solely two sacks throughout his almost three-quarter outing earlier than yielding to Tyler Huntley.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski expressed satisfaction with Sanders’ efficiency however remained cautious about making quick modifications to the quarterback depth chart.
“Actually, I am happy with the way in which Shedeur performed,” Stefanski stated. “I am happy with the way in which the offense operated tonight. All issues transferring ahead, as we proceed to apply, will likely be targeted on all of our guys’ improvement.”
Kevin Stefanski declined to disclose particulars about how the Browns plan to deal with their crowded quarterback room, which at the moment options six QBs, together with the favored Joe Flacco.
Even after restricted first-team reps throughout coaching camp and spending a lot time throwing to gear workers as QB4, Sanders displayed accuracy and composure unusual for a rookie making his skilled debut. Early within the sport, he transformed a vital third-and-long inside his personal 10-yard line with a exact throw over the center. Later, below strain, he linked on a 30-yard cross to Luke Floriea, who made a one-handed catch down the sideline, showcasing Sanders’ capability to increase performs and ship on the run.
Nevertheless, the efficiency was not good. Sanders narrowly averted an interception when forcing a cross into site visitors and infrequently retreated too far backward within the pocket, generally 10-15 yards, which contributed to a failed fourth-and-1 conversion. The Browns’ first two drives led to punts, with dropped passes from Diontae Johnson and Davis stalling momentum.
With two weeks remaining earlier than the common season, Sanders has not less than pressured the Browns to rethink their quarterback competitors, exhibiting off the depth and expertise on the place, even when Stefanski gained’t decide to any modifications but. So as to add to that, the Browns signed Tyler Huntley proper earlier than the opener, making the quarterback image much more crowded.