Shedeur Sanders Exceeds Expectations In Browns Debut, But Likely Quarterback Pecking Order To Remain Unchanged

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by James Van WicklerAugust 12, 2025, 12:02 am >

By the end of Shedeur Sanders‘ performance in the Cleveland Browns’ preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers on Friday, there were glowing reviews on social media from celebrities such as LeBron James and Jamie Foxx, complimentary posts from other NFL players like Xavier Worthy and even a Nike post that included a picture of Sanders along with the caption “Only a matter of time.”

As one Browns source joked, it may be the most talked-about preseason performance in the history of the NFL.

Despite the jokes, it was a strong performance from Sanders that the Browns’ staff felt good about and viewed as a confidence-builder and building block for the fifth-round draft pick. Even beyond the game, where Sanders went 14 for 23 for 138 yards with two touchdown passes, the Browns staff saw Sanders take a noticeable step forward with his preparation and locking in behind the scenes last week, knowing that he was in line for more reps and to start that game versus the Carolina Panthers.

There were positives from Sanders’ performance against the Panthers (for example, that he was decisive and threw the ball well), but there are “still a lot of things there that need to be cleaned up,” including from a pocket presence standpoint and handling pressure. Sources emphasized that it’s crucial not to get ahead of oneself based on the Browns’ first preseason game. The feedback prior to the start was that Sanders had been “up and down” through the beginning of the offseason and camp.

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With Kenny Pickett and third-round draft pick Dillon Gabriel limited by injuries, Sanders seized an opportunity. However, Sanders currently appears to be the fourth quarterback on the depth chart, behind expected starter Joe Flacco, followed by Pickett and Gabriel.

The opportunity for an increased workload should continue through this week for Sanders. While sources believe Gabriel may be back to being a full-go this week, it seems like Pickett is still at least a week away from being a full participant. And coming off that stellar showing against the Panthers, the Browns’ staff is highly curious to see how Sanders follows that up this week when the Browns face the Philadelphia Eagles in their second preseason game.