Cleveland Browns Rookie QB Shedeur Sanders Shines but Sits Out 1st-Team Reps as Joe Flacco Leads Preseason Drills
Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders continues to turn heads with his impressive preseason performances, but in a surprising move during today’s practice, he did not receive any first-team reps. After an eye-catching preseason debut against the Carolina Panthers where Sanders displayed poise and precision, the coaching staff opted to keep veteran Joe Flacco at the helm for the first-team 11-on-11 drills. This decision sparked curiosity and discussion among fans and analysts alike, as Sanders showed no shortage of talent and confidence on the field.
During today’s practice session, Joe Flacco was the undisputed starter for the first-team offense, running all the 11-on-11 reps. Sanders shared the workload with Dillon Gabriel, alternating reps between the second and third units. This clearly signaled that the Browns are still evaluating their quarterback depth chart carefully, opting for a cautious approach rather than immediately handing the reins over to their rookie sensation. Kenny Pickett, another quarterback competing for playing time, did not participate in team drills due to a hamstring injury, which leaves Sanders and Gabriel as the primary options beyond Flacco for now.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski remained deliberately non-committal when asked about whether Sanders would start in the upcoming preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Stefanski’s measured response suggests the coaching staff is balancing multiple factors — from player development and injury management to game-planning and assessing readiness under pressure. It also underscores that despite Sanders’ early success, the Browns are not rushing into decisions that could affect their long-term quarterback strategy.
Sanders’ performance in today’s team drills was yet another indication of his readiness to compete at the NFL level. He completed 10 of 14 passes, threw two touchdowns, and did not turn the ball over. Those numbers build on the momentum he gained from his strong preseason debut, where his ability to read defenses, make accurate throws, and maintain composure under pressure impressed coaches and teammates. His clean, confident playstyle contrasts with the usual rookie jitters, highlighting why the Browns invested in him during the draft and view him as a key piece for their future.
While Sanders’ lack of first-team reps might seem puzzling at first glance, it fits within a broader context of the Browns’ approach to managing their quarterback competition. Joe Flacco, with his extensive NFL experience and familiarity with the offense, remains a reliable and steady presence during these early stages of preseason. Giving Flacco the majority of first-team reps helps maintain continuity and ensures the offense operates smoothly as the Browns work through their evaluation process.
Meanwhile, allowing Sanders and Gabriel to work with the second and third teams lets the coaching staff observe their skills and decision-making in a less pressured environment. It provides opportunities to fine-tune mechanics, improve chemistry with different groups of receivers, and develop the mental aspects of the game. This layered approach to reps can be invaluable in preparing young quarterbacks for the demands of starting in the NFL, where the margin for error is razor-thin.
The Browns’ decision not to rush Sanders into a starting role despite his promising start also speaks to the high standards the organization holds. They recognize that a strong preseason debut, while encouraging, is only one piece of the puzzle. Consistency, understanding of the playbook, leadership qualities, and the ability to adapt to the speed and complexity of NFL defenses all factor into the ultimate decision of who will lead the Browns’ offense when the regular season begins.
Stefanski’s cautious approach also reflects the reality that the preseason is a time for experimentation and growth rather than immediate results. It’s a chance to build confidence, develop rapport with teammates, and iron out the kinks in the offensive system. By rotating reps among their quarterbacks, the Browns ensure that no single player is overwhelmed or exposed too early, while simultaneously gaining valuable insights into each quarterback’s strengths and areas for improvement.
For Shedeur Sanders, this measured progression offers a pathway to success that blends opportunity with preparation. His strong showing in today’s team drills, featuring accurate passing and effective decision-making, adds to the growing belief that he can become a future franchise quarterback. His performance underlines why the Browns are willing to invest time and patience in his development, rather than rushing to label him as the immediate starter.
In the bigger picture, the quarterback competition in Cleveland remains wide open. Joe Flacco’s veteran presence, Dillon Gabriel’s potential, Kenny Pickett’s recovery from injury, and Sanders’ breakout performances create a dynamic and competitive environment. This competition benefits the team by pushing each player to elevate their game and providing the coaching staff with multiple options depending on how the season unfolds.
The Browns’ fans can take heart in seeing such a promising rookie emerge in Sanders. His command of the offense, ability to find the end zone, and careful ball security are hallmarks of a quarterback with a bright future. While the coaching staff continues to weigh their options carefully, it’s clear that Sanders has done everything possible to earn consideration for a more prominent role.
Looking ahead, the upcoming preseason game against the Eagles will be a critical moment for Sanders and the entire Browns quarterback room. How much playing time he receives, the quality of his performance, and his ability to handle game situations will provide further clarity for the coaching staff. Whether or not he starts, the experience gained will be invaluable in preparing him for a potential starting role down the line.
In conclusion, the decision to withhold first-team reps from Shedeur Sanders today should not be seen as a setback but rather as a strategic move by the Browns to manage their quarterback development thoughtfully. Sanders’ impressive preseason debut and strong showing in today’s drills demonstrate that he has the talent and temperament to thrive in the NFL. With veteran Joe Flacco anchoring the first team and Dillon Gabriel and Kenny Pickett also in the mix, the Browns have a competitive quarterback room that sets the stage for exciting decisions as the season approaches. For now, Sanders remains a rising star patiently earning his spot, with every throw bringing him closer to becoming the Browns’ future leader under center.
