This Friday night, Shedeur Sanders will make a significant stride in his professional football career with an extended debut during the preseason matchup against the Carolina Panthers. According to a report by Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski announced on the team's radio broadcast that Sanders is slated to play the majority of the game. This decision indicates the organization’s confidence in the rookie quarterback as he takes on this critical first preseason challenge.
In terms of participation, Coach Stefanski mentioned that Sanders could expect to see around “50 plays of game work,” which should provide him with invaluable experience on the field. This level of involvement is crucial as it allows Sanders to familiarize himself with game scenarios and make real-time decisions under pressure.
As the game progresses, Tyler Huntley, who recently re-signed with the Browns, is expected to relieve Sanders in the later stages of the contest. This strategy will allow Sanders to showcase his skills while also ensuring that Huntley gets some valuable game time.
Currently, Sanders, Huntley, and veteran Joe Flacco are the only healthy quarterbacks on the Browns’ roster. The situation could have looked different if rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel had not been dealing with a hamstring injury; he might have started the game and played the first half, allowing Sanders to step in during the second half.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the Browns have opted to rest their starters for this game after completing a joint practice session with the Panthers earlier this week. This decision emphasizes the team's focus on developing younger talent and assessing their depth players.
Contrary to some expectations, Sanders will have the opportunity to play with the players he has been practicing with throughout the offseason and training camp. Rookie receivers Gage Larvadain and Luke Floriea will be among his primary targets, which should help build chemistry as they take the field together. Moreover, with injuries sidelining both Pickett and Gabriel, Sanders has also had the chance to work alongside Cleveland’s second-team receivers, including Diontae Johnson, Kaden Davis, and DeAndre Carter.
The highly anticipated kickoff between the Browns and Panthers is set for 7 p.m. ET. Fans can catch the action as the game will be televised nationally on the NFL Network. This matchup not only serves as a platform for Sanders to prove himself but also provides an exciting opportunity for fans to see how the Browns are shaping their roster ahead of the regular season.
