Shedeur Sanders’ first setback with the Cleveland Browns comes at a time that hurts and it could be impactful
Any setback isn’t ideal at all for the rookie quarterback.
The Cleveland Browns are in the midst of a quarterback battle during training camp as they look to determine their Week 1 starter.
Despite not receiving a heavy dose of key team reps so far, no name has generated more buzz in the room than Shedeur Sanders.
After slipping to the fifth round in the NFL Draft back in April, the Browns doubled down on rookie quarterbacks, selecting Sanders just two rounds after taking Dillon Gabriel out of Oregon.
As a fifth-round pick, Sanders is no lock to make the final roster and will need to earn his spot on the depth chart. Unfortunately, the rookie quarterback has already suffered a minor setback.
Shedeur Sanders’ First Setback With the Cleveland Browns Isn’t Ideal
Questions arose on Saturday when Sanders was the only quarterback—besides Kenny Pickett, who is rehabbing a hamstring injury—not to take any team reps with the first or second units. Instead, Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel handled all of the meaningful snaps.
Following practice, multiple reports indicated that Sanders was dealing with arm soreness, which he self-reported. It occurred during individual drills, leading the team to shut him down from team activities for the day. It’s worth noting that nearly every day after practice, Sanders has been seen staying late to get extra throws in.
While Sanders was already a long shot to be the Week 1 starter, any kind of setback does him no favors. Every rep is critical, especially since he hasn’t been receiving as many opportunities as Flacco and Gabriel. Missing time only further limits his ability to showcase his talent and improve his standing.
The Browns will open the preseason on Friday against the Carolina Panthers. Flacco is unlikely to play, and Pickett’s status remains uncertain. That leaves a potential opportunity for the two rookies to get extended reps. But if Sanders misses that game—or practices this week—it could hurt his chances of climbing the depth chart.
Training camp is still young, but every practice matters. Sanders’ status will be worth monitoring closely this week. Preseason games will be his best shot at making an impression in game situations, and being out there Friday against Carolina could be crucial to his future in Cleveland.
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