Coach Kevin Stefanski Confirms Shedeur Sanders as Browns’ Starter for Season
In a significant move, Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski has officially named Shedeur Sanders as the team’s starting quarterback for the remainder of the season. This decision comes after Sanders’ impressive performance, where he threw for 364 yards, recorded three touchdowns, and added a rushing score in a narrow 31-29 loss to the Tennessee Titans.
Shedeur Sanders: Cleveland’s New Starting Quarterback
Sanders, a fifth-round pick in the April draft, is now the third quarterback to lead the Browns this season. Initially starting as a backup, Sanders stepped into the starting role after Dillon Gabriel, a third-round rookie, suffered a concussion in Week 11 against Baltimore.
Performance Highlights
- Threw for 364 yards and three touchdowns against the Titans.
- First Browns player to achieve over 300 passing yards, three touchdown passes, and one rushing score in a single game.
- Browns now hold a 1-2 record during Sanders’ starts.
Despite the loss to Tennessee, Sanders demonstrated significant quarterbacking skills. His late-game drive resulted in two touchdowns, although both two-point conversion attempts were unsuccessful, contributing to the Browns’ season record of 3-10.
Looking Forward: Challenges Ahead
Stefanski expressed confidence in Sanders’ development, highlighting his ongoing improvement throughout the season. With little clarity in the quarterback position or the overall team performance, this move aims to assess Sanders’ potential as the Browns approach the offseason.
The upcoming game against the Chicago Bears will pose additional challenges. The Browns will be without veteran center Ethan Pocic, who has been ruled out for the season due to a ruptured Achilles tendon. Luke Wypler is set to take over as the starting center, marking the ninth different offensive line combination for the Browns this season. Pocic is among six offensive linemen eligible for free agency in March, adding to the uncertainties the team faces.
With two first-round picks in the 2026 draft, the Browns will look to balance immediate needs and future potential as Sanders continues to lead the team.
