Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders’ incredible preseason debut against the Carolina Panthers has left fans and analysts wondering about his future role with the team. Sanders, who recently joined the Browns after a controversial NFL draft fall, scored two touchdowns and drew praise from media figures like LeBron James and former WNBA star Dawn Staley. However, despite the impressive performance, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski did not confirm whether Sanders has earned a more prominent place on the depth chart. The quarterback currently ranks fourth behind Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel.
Stefanski’s comments focused more on the development of all quarterbacks rather than giving specific insights into Sanders’ standing. “We need to get through the next couple of days from an injury standpoint and see where everybody is,” Stefanski said. “I’m really focused on all of our quarterbacks’ development and every single one of these reps last night, how important they are. So, that’s what I’m focused on more than anything.” He added that Sanders has areas to improve but that the overall performance was solid. “There are things that Shedeur can clean up, he will clean up. But, by and large, I thought the operation was really good, and that’s important when you have different guys in there.”
Sanders himself acknowledged his performance but wasn’t satisfied with his own play. “Did I play up to par? No, I don’t feel like I did,” he said after the game. “But, overall, the main goal was to win, and that’s honestly what we did.” His brother, Deion Sanders Jr., shared a video of Shedeur interacting with ESPN reporter Tony Grossi at Bank of America Stadium. In the video, Shedeur challenged the reporter’s coverage, saying, “Tony, I be hoping you have something positive to say about me. You only say negative stuff about me. And I’m like, ‘I ain’t do nothing to you.’ I ain’t see nothing positive that you ever say.” Grossi’s response wasn’t audible, but the two shared a laugh afterward.
Sanders’ performance has sparked discussions among fans, with some expressing frustration over Stefanski’s lack of public acknowledgment. One user wrote, “Getting Kevin Stefanski to praise Shedeur and not praise the rookies or QBs as a whole is like pulling teeth.” Another added, “Stop playing and name him the starter already.” These sentiments reflect the growing pressure on the Browns to determine Sanders’ role quickly, especially after his strong showing in the preseason. The team is set to face the Philadelphia Eagles in their next preseason game, which will give Sanders another chance to showcase his skills.
Historical context also plays a role in Sanders’ situation. The quarterback fell from the 144th pick in the NFL Draft, after scouts raised concerns about his character. This fall, which shocked many NFL fans, has been a topic of debate throughout the season. While Sanders has remained focused on improving his game, the controversies surrounding his behavior—particularly the recent speeding tickets and missed court appearances—have added complexity to his journey. Browns general manager Andrew Berry addressed the tickets last month, calling them “not smart” and emphasizing their impact on personal and public safety. “It’s not just about yourself,” Berry said. “It’s not just about having a joyride, but that you could injure other people.”
As the Browns prepare for the regular season, the team faces a delicate balance between showcasing Sanders’ potential and addressing the controversies that have accompanied his arrival. While his preseason performance has signaled progress, the long-term success of his tenure with the Browns will depend on how well he adapts to the professional environment and how effectively the organization manages his reputation moving forward.