The Cleveland Browns saw a spark from rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders in his NFL preseason debut, where he impressed by completing 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns, earning him the eighth-best quarterback grade in Week 1 of the preseason. His standout performance has turned heads, intensifying the competition in the Browns’ quarterback room, where he’s currently behind veterans Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel. While Flacco, a former starter with the Ravens, brings experience, his prime years are long gone, and none of the quarterbacks ahead of Sanders are considered elite superstars.
This sets the stage for a heated battle for the starting role. However, Sanders’ momentum took a hit during a joint practice with the Philadelphia Eagles ahead of their Saturday preseason clash in Philadelphia, as the rookie suffered an oblique strain and is unlikely to play, according to the team.
Shedeur Sanders Receives Support From Jalen Hurts
The injury news is a setback for Sanders, who was looking to capitalize on his strong debut to climb the depth chart in a tightly contested race for the Week 1 starting job against the Cincinnati Bengals. Missing opportunities like this week’s game could make it easier for the Browns to lean toward other options, even if the injury isn’t deemed serious. In the NFL, where one player’s misfortune often opens doors for others, Sanders’ health remains a priority, but the timing is tough.
As he left the practice field, he received a boost from an unexpected source-Philadelphia Eagles quarterback and reigning Super Bowl MVP Jalen Hurts. Hurts accompanied Sanders on a golf cart ride back to the locker room, offering words of encouragement. In a press conference, Hurts shared, “He came to me and wanted to talk. I’m always willing to share my perspective on what I’ve been through. I support him, and I wish him nothing but the best.”
Hurts’ gesture was a class act, especially considering his own journey through adversity-benched in the 2018 National Championship for Tua Tagovailoa, drafted in the second round despite first-round hype, and named the Eagles’ starter late in his rookie year. Despite criticism over plays like the “tush push” or the Eagles’ stacked roster, Hurts remains a grounded leader, making him the perfect mentor for Sanders to lean on.
Contrasting Paths for Eagles and Browns
The Eagles and Browns are on divergent trajectories, with little in common beyond Kenny Pickett, who served as Philadelphia’s backup last season. After this week’s preseason matchup, the Browns wrap up their preseason against the Los Angeles Rams, where head coach Kevin Stefanski is expected to name his starting quarterback.
Given the team’s challenging early-season slate-facing the Bengals, Ravens, Packers, and Lions, three of whom were playoff teams last year-Sanders may still get his shot if changes arise during the regular season.
Meanwhile, the Eagles close their preseason against the New York Jets before kicking off the 2025 NFL season against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday, September 4. With Hurts leading a powerhouse roster, Philadelphia is poised for another deep playoff run, while Cleveland hopes to stabilize its quarterback situation and build momentum.
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