Shedeur Sanders Set for Starting Role in Preseason Opener

Shedeur Sanders, currently listed as the fourth-string quarterback on the Cleveland Browns’ unofficial depth chart, is poised to start the team’s first preseason game against the Carolina Panthers. This opportunity arises as both Kenny Pickett and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel are sidelined with hamstring injuries. According to a report from Cleveland.com, Sanders will be the first quarterback to take the field on Friday night in Carolina.

Family Dynamics and Expectations

Sanders, son of Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders, expressed mixed feelings about his father’s presence at practice. Despite not taking first-team reps yet, he humorously noted that he didn’t want his father cheering him on prematurely. This sentiment comes after Deion Sanders publicly shared his battle with bladder cancer earlier this offseason. Shedeur acknowledged the dual nature of having a legendary NFL player as a father, describing it as both “a gift and a curse.” He understands how his father’s presence might be perceived as distracting from team efforts.

Opportunity Amidst Challenges

With Joe Flacco, the presumptive starter for the Browns, being rested to avoid injury, Sanders will have a chance to showcase his skills on the NFL stage. The Browns also signed Tyler Huntley due to the injuries affecting Pickett and Gabriel, but Huntley is expected to play after Sanders. Despite limited practice reps with starting players like Jerry Jeudy and David Njoku, Sanders has impressed with his accuracy—a skill honed under his father’s coaching at Colorado.

A Chance to Shine

Sanders’ journey to this point has been closely watched since he was drafted by the Browns in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Although he was held out of a recent practice due to arm soreness, he returned to full participation by Monday. As he prepares for his first NFL appearance, Sanders aims to demonstrate his capabilities and make a strong impression on both the Browns’ coaching staff and fans.