Browns QB Shedeur Sanders Frustrated After Head Coach Bench Him for Game-Winning Drive
Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders revealed his frustration after being benched by head coach Kevin Stefanski in favor of veteran Tyler Huntley during a crucial preseason game against the Rams. Sanders had hoped to lead the final drive that secured the win, but Stefanski chose Huntley instead. Despite his own struggles in the game, including five sacks and a lack of rhythm with the offense, Sanders remains confident he will make the final roster.
Stefanski defended his decision to start Huntley, noting that the veteran quarterback had played in all three preseason games with the Browns. Huntley was cut from the roster after the game despite his efforts, adding to the confusion for Sanders, who had been eager to take the lead in the final moments of the game.
Sanders expressed his emotions during an interview with Cleveland.com, stating that he wanted to be the one to lead the team in the final two-minute drive, which is a situation every quarterback dreams of experiencing. His frustration was evident as he had hoped to be the one to take the field and make a statement for the team. However, Stefanski made it clear that the plan was to have Huntley lead the charge.
The Browns have already named 41-year-old veteran Joe Flacco as their starting quarterback for Week 1 against the Cincinnati Bengals, a key divisional matchup. The coaching staff is still considering the backup options, with Pickett expected to return for the season and possibly be on the final roster. Stefanski has not yet named a backup to Flacco, and the team is planning to keep its four other quarterbacks on the 53-man roster, including Deshaun Watson, who is on injured reserve due to a torn Achilles.
With the NFL deadline for submitting 53-man rosters approaching, Browns fans and football analysts are eager to see which quarterbacks will make the final cuts. Sanders’ situation highlights the competitive nature of the NFL and the challenges faced by rookie quarterbacks in earning their place on the roster. As training camp progresses, the Browns will have to make tough decisions to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.