Prized Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is prepared to set the world on fire. He’s poised to make his NFL debut as early as this Friday against the Carolina Panthers. Chosen in the fifth round in this year’s draft, Sanders is making every effort count as he tries to earn a place on the team. He has stiff competition coming from quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel, Joe Flacco, and Kenny Pickett.
Gabriel, Cleveland’s third-round pick, is the new No. 2 behind rookie Baker Mayfield, who won the starting job Week 4. Flacco, 40, has received the bulk of the first-team reps throughout training camp. With the preseason opener on the horizon, both Gabriel and Pickett now find themselves on the shelf with hamstring injuries. That has opened the door for Sanders to potentially climb up from his current fourth-string position on the depth chart.
Sanders has been the most challenged back in training camp, as he’s had the fewest reps with the starters of all his competitors. The upcoming game against the Panthers may provide him with a vital chance to showcase his skills and make a case for the QB1 spot. His work may have a major impact on the Browns’ process as they assess their quarterback options heading into the regular season.
The Browns will have joint practices with the Panthers in Charlotte, North Carolina starting Wednesday, in preparation for their preseason opener Friday. During these limited practices and games, it’s an important time for all players, no matter their experience level. For Sanders, it is an important opportunity to get valuable minutes and prove that he is ready for the next step up to the pro game.
Gabriel and Pickett will not be able to play in Friday’s game. This is a huge opportunity for Sanders to stand out and have his greatest impact! Flacco’s experience is infinite, but at 38 years old, his long-term viability is in doubt. It’s doubtful how much longer he can remain an effective candidate under center. It’s this last point that makes Sanders’ performance during the game so important in this scenario. In fact, it might determine what his long-term position on the roster will be.
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