Kevin Stefanski bets on Shedeur Sanders in surprising quarterback decision
Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski made a bold move on Monday, officially naming Shedeur Sanders as the starting quarterback for the next four games. This decision follows Sanders’ impressive performance during the Browns’ Week 14 loss to the Tennessee Titans, where he accounted for four touchdowns—three passing and one rushing.
Upcoming Challenges for Sanders
As Sanders takes the helm, the Browns face a challenging slate of opponents: the Chicago Bears, Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Cincinnati Bengals. With just three starts under his belt, Sanders has a critical opportunity to influence the team’s offseason strategies. If he excels, the organization could be set on a clear path forward.
Sanders is aware that these next four games could solidify his position as the starting quarterback in Cleveland. A strong showing may make it difficult for the Browns to consider any replacements, irrespective of potential changes in coaching staff.
Draft Implications
Looking ahead to the 2024 NFL Draft, the Browns find themselves in a unique spot. Currently, they hold two first-round picks, with the No. 4 overall selection if the draft were to occur before Week 15. The teams ahead of them—the New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders, and Tennessee Titans—are all potential candidates to select a quarterback. Notably, the Raiders, currently sitting at No. 2, are the only team that might actively pursue a quarterback in the upcoming draft.
The Raiders and Giants are set to clash in Week 17, which could further alter the draft landscape. Should Sanders lead the team to a victory or two in the remaining games, the Browns may find themselves out of range for top prospect Fernando Mendoza, the standout quarterback from Indiana who is a frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy. Instead, they could leverage their first-round picks to bolster other areas, such as wide receiver and offensive line, allowing Sanders a full offseason to prepare for 2026.
The Pressure Is On
However, the stakes are high. If Sanders struggles and fails to replicate his recent success, the Browns might consider drafting his successor. This offseason, owner Jimmy Haslam emphasized the importance of evaluating both rookie quarterbacks, with Sanders showing more promise than third-round pick Dillon Gabriel. The Browns could find themselves with a prime opportunity to secure Mendoza, depending on their final record and draft position.
Haslam’s remarks about the team’s performance—particularly his dissatisfaction with a three-win season—add additional pressure on Stefanski. A disappointing finish could lead to significant changes within the coaching staff, including the potential for a new head coach eager to select their own quarterback.
Sanders’ Fork in the Road
With the Browns currently sitting at 3-10, Sanders finds himself in a peculiar yet advantageous situation. If he can build on his performance and secure even one more win, he may position himself favorably for next season, especially if the team falls too far down the draft order to select Mendoza. Conversely, if the team continues to struggle and ends up with a top draft pick, the Browns may face a tough decision about investing in a first-round quarterback once again.
