Adam Schefter Updates on Shedeur Sanders’ Future as Browns QB1 Amid NFL Rumors
Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is in contention to remain the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season. According to Adam Schefter from ESPN, the Browns are considering giving Sanders an extended opportunity to prove his worth as their QB1.
Recent Performance and Opportunities
Sanders made his inaugural regular-season start last week, leading the Browns to a 24-10 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. Originally selected in the fifth round from the University of Colorado, Sanders had started the season as the team’s third-string quarterback.
His rise to the starting position occurred following several key developments:
- Joe Flacco was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals.
- Rookie third-round pick Dillon Gabriel was promoted to starter.
- Gabriel entered concussion protocol during Week 11’s matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.
Although Sanders struggled in the second half of that game, sealing a 23-16 defeat, he was subsequently named the starting quarterback for Week 12. In his first official start, Sanders completed 11 of 20 passes for 209 yards, accompanied by one touchdown and one interception.
Key Contributions and Future Prospects
A notable highlight from Sanders’ debut was a 66-yard touchdown pass to rookie running back Dylan Sampson. Additionally, he showcased his arm strength with downfield throws to Jerry Jeudy and Isaiah Bond, achieving gains of 39 and 52 yards, respectively.
Despite the Cleveland Browns’ current 3-8 record, which puts them out of playoff contention, the organization is focused on evaluating its quarterbacks for the future. With Gabriel cleared from concussion protocol, Sanders will start again against the San Francisco 49ers. Analysts suggest that the team is keen to assess whether one of their rookie quarterbacks can provide a long-term solution ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Comparative Analysis of Quarterback Performances
While Gabriel had six starts this season, resulting in a record of 1-5, he completed 59.2% of his passes for a total of 937 yards, with seven touchdowns and two interceptions. Should Sanders maintain his starting role for the remainder of the season, he could potentially end with seven total starts, providing the Browns with valuable data to compare both rookie quarterbacks.
The upcoming games will be crucial for the Browns as they aim to identify their next franchise quarterback.
