For several years, the Cleveland Browns have faced numerous struggles, with the quarterback position arguably being their biggest challenge. Now, head coach Kevin Stefanski has offered some clarity on the situation — and on Shedeur Sanders‘ future.
The Browns currently have five quarterbacks on their roster, all vying for an opportunity: veterans Joe Flacco and Deshaun Watson, newly acquired Kenny Pickett, and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.
Out of the five, Sanders may be the most intriguing. Once projected as a top pick, he slipped to the fifth round, where the Browns selected him 144th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft — rescuing him from an even steeper fall.
Kevin Stefanski gets brutally honest about Shedeur Sanders’ potential
Kevin Stefanski is facing a critical season in Cleveland. Many analysts believe this could be his final chance to prove he’s the right man for the job, and his decisions — especially at quarterback — could define his future.
With Deshaun Watson still recovering from a twice-torn Achilles and uncertainty surrounding his return, fans expect Stefanski to lean on veteran Joe Flacco. However, questions remain about Sanders and whether he can rise up the depth chart.
Despite being rated as the second-best quarterback in the draft by some scouts, Sanders’ fall to the fifth round came as a shock. Now, he faces a crowded competition for one of three quarterback spots on the final 53-man roster, as at least two QBs are expected to be released or traded before the season begins.
Fortunately for Sanders, early signs are promising. Stefanski recently praised the rookie’s skill set, hinting at the possibility that Sanders could make the cut and play a meaningful role in Cleveland’s quarterback room.
“He’s in there early, he’s getting his work done, he’s working really, really hard,” Kevin Stefanski said on Shedeur Sanders during an interview with ESPN Cleveland. “I like everything there is about Shedeur.”
It’s unclear whether Stefanski’s comments were influenced by social media pressure. Nevertheless, it’s a positive sign for Shedeur Sanders and his ambition to become an big star in the near future.