Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is set to make his NFL debut as the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback after being named the starter for Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders. This comes after the team’s original starter, Dillon Gabriel, suffered a concussion and is unavailable for the game. Sanders will be making his first NFL start in a crucial matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders, a team that is in the midst of a rebuild. The Browns are looking for a spark at quarterback, and Sanders, a fifth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has a chance to prove himself at the next level.
Sanders, who was a highly touted prospect coming out of college, has been working hard to adapt to the professional game. Despite his potential, he has faced some challenges in his NFL tenure. In his first in-game action since the preseason, Sanders struggled, completing just four of his 16 pass attempts and throwing an interception. However, he remains confident in his abilities and is focused on improving.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski has been working closely with Sanders to ensure his success. Stefanski emphasized the importance of making sure Sanders feels comfortable in his new role, noting that the quarterback must be confident in order for the team to have a chance at victory. ‘You’re always trying to do that with all your players — make sure they’re comfortable. It’s no different with Shedeur. You want to make sure all the concepts are things he feels confident in,’ Stefanski said in a press conference.
Sanders has also been taking notes and working with the rest of the quarterback room to improve his skills. He believes that the best way to learn is by playing and gaining experience on the field. ‘I’m more of a feel type of person. That’s how I learn. That’s how I do everything,’ Sanders said. ‘I’m not just going to watch it, and it’s just going to happen. No — I’ve got to be out there, feel it, move around.’ His approach to the game is both personal and practical, emphasizing the importance of experience and adaptation in the NFL.
As the Browns prepare for their game against the Las Vegas Raiders, the focus is on Sanders’ performance. His success in the upcoming game could solidify his position as the starting quarterback and provide the team with a spark in their rebuilding phase. With pressure on him to perform, Sanders is determined to meet the expectations of the fans and the organization. ‘I know our fans have a lot of expectations and hope,’ Sanders said. ‘And I’d be doing a disservice to myself and the organization if I didn’t feel like I am the guy.’ His confidence and determination will be key in his NFL debut.