The Cleveland Browns are considering giving rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders an extended opportunity as their starter following his first career win. Sanders is set to make his second start on Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. Coach Kevin Stefanski praised Sanders' preparation ahead of the home matchup.
Shedeur Sanders, a fifth-round pick out of Colorado, earned his first NFL victory last week against the Las Vegas Raiders, throwing for 209 yards and one touchdown. This marked the first time since 1995 that a Browns quarterback won his debut start, breaking a 0-17 streak for rookie QBs dating back to 1999.
The Browns (3-8) are open to providing Sanders with an extended look at the position, similar to the reps given to fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel earlier this season, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Despite Gabriel clearing concussion protocol after six starts—where he posted 937 yards, seven touchdowns, and two interceptions—Sanders took first-team reps in practice and will start against the 49ers.
Browns coach Kevin Stefanski highlighted Sanders' commitment during Friday's comments: "Very committed to working at it, doing a great job, communicating with coaches, with the players. Good work week, but nothing different. I think any player though, once you get one game under your belt, you got the next one coming. I think it can only help."
Sanders expressed optimism about his growth, stating, "I always want to exceed expectations, and I always want to grow in each and every week, I would want to put a better product of myself, be a better version of myself for the team to be out there." He began the season behind Joe Flacco, who was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals, and Gabriel.
Now, Sanders aims to lead the Browns, listed as 5.5-point home underdogs, to a second straight win in his first home start. This opportunity comes after Sanders was buried on the depth chart until recent injuries and trades thinned the quarterback room.