Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski announced on Wednesday that rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders will start in the team’s preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers, edging out fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel. This decision highlights Sanders’ rising role within the Browns as they prepare for the season. Myles Garrett, the Browns’ standout defensive end, praised Sanders following the team’s announcement, recognizing the rookie’s approach and work ethic.
Myles Garrett Comments on Sanders’ Approach and Leadership
Garrett described Sanders as a player who balances a light-hearted personality with serious dedication to his craft.
“He’s funny, he’s optimistic, light-hearted — but he works hard. He takes it seriously, his craft, and he’s watching what the others are doing and doing it his own way, in which only he can,”
Garrett told reporters.
The Browns star also expressed eagerness to observe how Sanders handles the offense during the preseason, noting the strong performances seen so far.
“So, looking forward to seeing him in these preseason games and how he manages the offense. I think he looks good, but all the guys look good right now.”
Garrett revealed that Sanders has been seeking his advice during training camp, focusing on Garrett’s perspective as a defender to better understand defensive strategies.
“He’s definitely come to me a couple times to see what I’m thinking when I’m going through my rush or what the defense’s mentality is.”
Additionally, Garrett praised the dynamic between Sanders and Gabriel in the quarterback room, emphasizing cooperation over rivalry. He noted they
“help each other and work together”
rather than engaging in destructive competition.
Sanders’ Strong Camp Performance Leads to Starting Nod
Sanders earned the starting role due to his consistent ability to make solid throws throughout training camp. Meanwhile, Gabriel, a third-round pick, has faced challenges with accuracy and inconsistency in recent practices. Despite this, Gabriel remains a contender for playing time, especially given injuries to Kenny Pickett and Deshaun Watson. Pickett is currently dealing with a hamstring issue, while Watson is recovering from a torn Achilles.
The Browns plan to start veteran Joe Flacco in Week 1, but a strong preseason showing from Sanders could alter the quarterback depth chart. Sanders’ performance in these early games will be closely watched as the team continues evaluating its options at the position.
Joe Flacco’s Reaction to Sanders’ Selection as Starter
Although Joe Flacco did not dress for the Browns’ preseason opener, he expressed his respect and support for Shedeur Sanders in response to the starting decision.
“That’s why we play the game, right? You know, we play to play. That’s what gets us all going. … The end goal is to be the guy on the field playing football games. That’s why we all do it. That’s as simple as it gets,”
Flacco shared.
He also highlighted his own desire for playing time and the opportunity to prove himself.
“I do need reps. And not only do I need reps, I want reps. I like reps. I want to get better. And also, I want to be able to show guys, hey, I can still do it.”
Background on Shedeur Sanders and Draft Expectations
Shedeur Sanders, the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, played college football for the Colorado Buffaloes before being selected by the Browns in the fifth round with the 144th overall pick. His selection came as a surprise to many analysts who had projected him as a Day 1 or early Day 2 pick, some ranking him as the second-best quarterback available in this draft class.
The unexpected slide to the fifth round raised questions, given his college achievements and skill set. Despite this, his early progress with the Browns suggests that he could make a meaningful impact as he adapts to the professional level.
Implications for the Browns’ Quarterback Competition
Shedeur Sanders earning the starting spot for the preseason opener indicates the Browns’ interest in evaluating their young quarterback talent thoroughly. With Kenny Pickett sidelined by injury and Deshaun Watson still recovering, the competition for significant playing time this season remains open. Joe Flacco’s presence provides veteran stability, but Sanders’ performance could shift the balance in the coming weeks.
Myles Garrett’s supportive remarks also reflect a positive team environment in the quarterback room, which may contribute to Sanders’ development and confidence as he seeks to secure a more prominent role on the roster moving forward.