Kevin Stefanski sparks enthusiasm: Shedeur Sanders ready for Browns debut against Raiders
The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for a pivotal matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders, and all eyes are on quarterback Shedeur Sanders as he prepares for what could be his first start in the NFL. While the team has faced a string of quarterback challenges this season, Sanders is determined to seize the opportunity and establish himself as more than just a temporary fill-in.
Shedeur Sanders steps into the spotlight
Fresh off his initial NFL experience, Sanders is on the verge of making his starting debut for the Browns. With Dillon Gabriel currently sidelined due to a concussion, the door is wide open for Sanders to take the reins. Head coach Kevin Stefanski is optimistic about Sanders’s potential as he steps into this crucial role.
“It’s all positive,” Stefanski remarked regarding Sanders’s development. “You’re constantly learning as a young football player, constantly learning as a quarterback through all reps. We talk a lot about mental reps and how important they are. All those physical reps add up and will only improve as he continues to get turns.”
A chance for growth
If Sanders does take the field against the Raiders, he will become the third quarterback to start for the Browns this season—a testament to the team’s ongoing struggles at the position. His performance against the Baltimore Ravens highlighted areas for improvement, but with increased practice reps, Sanders is poised to make strides before facing the Raiders.
Stefanski emphasized the importance of making decisions that benefit the team. “The development of our players is constant. It doesn’t happen just in one drill or one practice or one meeting. We trust our backup players to be ready to go, and Shedeur is ready to go. He wants to play better, and I want to coach better. That comes through work.”
Preparation is key
Sanders acknowledges that his time as a backup to veterans Joe Flacco and Gabriel limited his first-team reps. However, with the upcoming game against the Raiders, he is expected to receive more opportunities to showcase his skills in practice, which should translate to improved performance on game day.
“Shedeur is putting in great work,” Stefanski praised. “On the field and in the meeting room, he will be better with the reps he’s getting. That’s true for any player. We trust him, and he’s someone who continues to put in the effort and will keep doing so.”
Game day approaches
As the Browns prepare to face the Raiders, anticipation is building around Sanders’s potential debut. The game is scheduled for Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET, with fans able to catch the action on CBS or stream it on Paramount Plus. Whatever the outcome, Sanders’s performance could mark a significant turning point in his young career and the Browns’ season.
