The Cleveland Browns have officially named Shedeur Sanders as the starting quarterback for their Week 12 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. This marks a significant moment for the rookie, who was selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Browns Promote Shedeur Sanders to QB1: Key Insights on the Decision
Shedeur Sanders, drafted by the Browns from Colorado, has taken a developmental path since joining the team. Initially, he was QB4 on the depth chart behind veterans Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and rookie Dillon Gabriel. However, a series of events has led to Sanders’ promotion.
Recent Developments
- Sanders served as the third-string QB starting September 7, 2025.
- Pickett was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders before the roster cutdown.
- Following Flacco’s trade to the Cincinnati Bengals on October 7, Sanders became the backup.
- In Week 11, Gabriel suffered a concussion, leading to Sanders’ debut as he entered the game against the Baltimore Ravens.
In that debut, Sanders completed 4 of 16 passes for 47 yards, with one interception and two sacks. Despite his rocky start, he is now set to make his first career start on November 26, 2025, at 4:05 PM ET.
Team Support for Sanders
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has expressed confidence in his strategy to support Sanders. Acknowledging the challenges of development, he has modified practice structures to assist both Sanders and other young players. Practice sessions are designed to maximize opportunities for reps.
Stefanski emphasized the need for Sanders to feel confident in the offensive concepts as he prepares for his first start.
Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Sanders possesses notable strengths, including:
- Ball placement: He recorded a 74% completion percentage in his final season at Colorado.
- Poise under pressure: Despite challenges, he has demonstrated potential through his collegiate experience.
However, he needs to improve on pocket management and decision-making under duress, having faced a high number of sacks in college. Awareness of when to conclude plays will be crucial as he transitions to the professional level.
Future Outlook for the Browns’ Quarterback Situation
With Gabriel still in concussion protocol, Sanders has the opportunity to prove himself as a viable option moving forward. While Stefanski has indicated that Gabriel will reclaim the starting role upon recovery, a strong performance from Sanders could impact future decisions regarding the starting quarterback position.
The Browns’ upcoming draft strategy may also hinge on the performances of both rookie quarterbacks. With two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, they have a chance to address their quarterback needs, depending on Sanders’ and Gabriel’s showings.
As the Browns prepare for their game against the Raiders, the focus will be on how well Sanders can execute and support the team’s playoff aspirations.
