The Cleveland Browns’ preseason opener on Friday night saw the fifth-round rookie quarterback practically ace his test, but there’s another way to look at this. Despite carrying a hefty workload, Sanders was far from flawless in the team’s 30-10 exhibition victory over the Carolina Panthers. But he was good, boy. The 23-year-old Sanders appeared to be directed by a laser as he tossed two touchdown passes to Kaden Davis. He escaped at least four would-be sacks during his Harry Houdini moments. He didn’t follow the script, such as when Luke Floriea, a fellow rookie, hauled in a 30-yard completion with one hand. Furthermore, he never made a mistake. Later on, though, Sanders (14-of-23, 138 yards, 106.8 passer rating) lamented missing a few ill-advised throws.
He asked, “Did I play up to par?” “No, I don’t believe I did,” He has the right to his own opinion, though. Consider what Sanders, who is ranked fourth on the depth chart, could have accomplished if he had practiced with the starting lineup or the backup squad. During training camp, Sanders has only had a few appearances with the 2’s and has not yet received a single rep with the first team. He is the man who is observed working by himself on a nearby field during practices. Sanders was given the opportunity to start and do well because Kenny Pickett and rookie Dillon Gabriel, who were listed below Joe Flacco, were recovering from hamstring problems. His lack of practice reps led some to believe he was set up for failure. However, Sanders has his chance to start and shine.
His lack of practice reps led some to believe he was set up for failure. Sanders, meanwhile, holds a very different opinion. Sanders, who led college football in completion percentage in his final season playing for his Hall of Fame father, Deion, at Colorado in 2024, said, “I think overall in life, I don’t want anybody to make excuses.” Sanders then dominated the news cycle during the three-day NFL draft as his stock plummeted from a projected first-round pick to a Day 3 selection. Doomed to fail? “You make a request to God. “There it is,” he said. “And you’ll be whining about it? There are two ways to look at it, then. You can look at it with gratitude and make the most of the opportunity.
Shedeur Sanders impressed in his debut, potentially positioning himself as a serious contender for the Browns’ starting quarterback job. Despite limited practice reps, Sanders showed poise, accuracy, and mobility, throwing two touchdown passes and demonstrating keen instincts.
Sanders remained focused, saying he only controls his performance on the field and doesn’t worry about things outside his control. His goal is to perform well when given the chance and do enough to win.
The Browns’ situational football scenarios provided a perfect test for Sanders, who operated in various situations, including a nine-play drive, a two-play drive, and back-to-back third-and-long plays.
Sanders’ performance has generated buzz, with LeBron James and his father, Deion Sanders, reacting on social media. Deion’s reaction was a simple “What now?”.
Sanders said he’s comfortable with being uncomfortable and is focused on finding his rhythm. He feels like he performed well and is thankful for the opportunity to play.
Overall, Sanders’ debut adds intrigue to the Browns’ quarterback situation, and it’s unclear what the future holds. However, one thing is certain – Sanders has made a statement and is ready to make an impact.
