The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation has become one of the most talked-about topics of the 2025 NFL preseason. With five quarterbacks currently active on the roster – veteran Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, Kenny Pickett, Shedeur Sanders, and Tyler Huntley – the team faces a significant challenge in choosing their starter.
As the preseason progresses, fans are questioning head coach Kevin Stefanski’s handling of Shedeur Sanders, particularly after a standout performance in the first preseason game.
In their Week 1 matchup against the Carolina Panthers, Sanders, who made waves at the University of Colorado, was given a solid opportunity to showcase his skills. He started the game and played well into the third quarter, a rare show of trust from the coaching staff. Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns.
He also ran for 19 yards on four carries, demonstrating his dual-threat ability. With no turnovers and a strong performance overall, many believed this would help elevate him in the quarterback hierarchy.
However, despite Sanders’ impressive outing, the Browns’ depth chart remained unchanged. Sanders was still listed as the fourth-string quarterback, behind Flacco, Pickett, and Gabriel. This decision immediately drew the ire of fans and analysts alike, many of whom were baffled by the Browns’ failure to elevate Sanders after such a productive performance.
On social media, reactions were swift and vocal. One fan called it “ridiculous” that Sanders remained in the fourth spot, while others decried the decision as “laughable.” Some even expressed frustration that the Browns might be missing out on a chance to develop Sanders into a potential future starter.
The debate over Sanders’ position
The controversy surrounding Sanders’ position on the depth chart raises important questions about the Browns’ evaluation process. After all, Sanders’ performance in the Panthers game was not just competent; it was a statement. His accuracy, decision-making, and ability to move the ball seemed to suggest he could be a legitimate contender for a larger role.
Yet, the Browns are sticking to their guns and are not ready to move Sanders up the ladder just yet.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the issue during a press conference, stating that there is no set timeline for naming a starting quarterback. “I’m not there yet, but certainly these are all things I’m thinking about,” Stefanski said. He went on to mention that the Browns would take everything into consideration as they evaluate their quarterbacks.
The team’s next preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles will likely be a deciding factor in the quarterback race. “We’ll see how we get through this week and then make a decision on when to make a decision,” Stefanski added.
As the preseason progresses, the Browns will need to make a final call on their quarterback depth chart. With two games remaining, will Sanders finally get the recognition he deserves, or will he continue to be passed over? Fans will be watching closely, eager to see if the Browns’ decision aligns with the promise Sanders has shown in his limited opportunities.
Read the full article here
