With the Cleveland Browns’ first preseason game against the Panthers looming on August 8, fans and players alike are buzzing about who’ll claim the starting quarterback spot-not just for that matchup but for the whole season. It’s rare, maybe even unheard of, to see such an open competition among four signal-callers. I’ve been saying since he joined the team that Kenny Pickett holds the edge, thanks to his two years as a starter in Pittsburgh and last season as a backup for the champion Eagles.
That gives him a leg up over grizzled vet Joe Flacco, who’s been a backup since leaving the Ravens in 2019, and the rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. But today, Sanders flipped the script with his standout training camp performance, adding a fresh layer of excitement to coach Kevin Stefanski’s big decision.
Sanders Shines Bright with Breakout Camp Day
On Saturday, the fourth day of the Browns’ training camp, Shedeur Sanders turned heads, delivering what’s being called his “breakout day.” According to ESPN Cleveland’s stats from team drills, the former Colorado Buffaloes star had his best performance yet. He completed 8 of 11 passes for a completion rate over 70% and tossed three touchdowns, though the red-zone focus might inflate those numbers slightly. Highlights included a touchdown pass to receiver Luke Floriea, which earned praise from reporter Grant Puskar as the best practice so far for Sanders.
While Kenny Pickett notched two touchdowns and Dillon Gabriel added one, Sanders stood out. Stefanski and his staff are giving the rookies room to grow. Gabriel and Pickett got first-team reps in seven-on-seven drills. However, in the 11-on-11 red-zone work, Pickett was with the first unit, Sanders with the second, and Gabriel with the third.
Despite some chatter about Sanders throwing to equipment managers, he’s building chemistry with his receivers. Plus, it was the first time Sanders had taken reps ahead of Gabriel.
Browns’ QB Choice Carries High Stakes and History
Whoever Stefanski picks, the team needs to rally behind them. Before him, the Browns had just one playoff appearance this century; with him, they’ve notched two in five years, snagged their first playoff win since 1994, and tied the franchise record with two 11-win seasons since then. Still, the starting role is far from locked in. Since 1999, Cleveland has cycled through 40 different starters-the most in the NFL-with only Tim Couch and Baker Mayfield playing every game in a season.
Last year’s four opening-day QBs, including Deshaun Watson, are all gone, leaving a wide-open door but zero stability. Sanders’ electric day might push him up, but with Pickett’s experience and Flacco’s savvy in the mix, it’s anyone’s guess who’ll lead-and how long they’ll last.
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