Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski provided an update on rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders’ recovery, revealing that he is expected to participate in Wednesday’s practice in a limited capacity after missing Week 8 due to a back issue.
Sanders, a fifth-round pick in this year’s draft, has yet to see any regular-season action and currently serves as the backup to fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel.
“We need to see how he responds,” Stefanski told reporters on Wednesday. “Obviously, he’s pushing very hard in rehab, but we need to see how he does over the next couple of days.”
With Sanders sidelined against the New England Patriots, Bailey Zappe was elevated from the practice squad to serve as Gabriel’s backup. Following the trade that sent veteran Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals in October, the Browns only have two quarterbacks on their active roster.
Dillon Gabriel’s inconsistent performance has sparked speculation about Shedeur Sanders potentially taking over. ESPN’s Daniel Oyefusi reported that Stefanski wants to ensure Sanders’ back can handle the rigors of game preparation before making any decisions. If deemed unfit, Bailey Zappe could once again be called upon from the practice squad.
Gabriel’s rookie campaign has been up and down, with a completion rate of 59.9% for 702 yards, five touchdowns, and two interceptions in six appearances. His 26.8 QBR places him near the bottom among starting quarterbacks this season.
NFL analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has criticized the Browns for their handling of young quarterbacks in recent years, particularly referencing the situation with Baker Mayfield. Kiper believes that the organization has not given Sanders the opportunity he deserves, despite being his top-ranked quarterback last year.
Local radio host Jonathan Peterlin also weighed in, suggesting that Sanders faces heightened expectations due to his father’s Hall of Fame legacy and the preseason hype surrounding him.
As the situation with Sanders continues to unfold, all eyes will be on how the Browns navigate the quarterback position moving forward. Stay tuned for more updates on Shedeur Sanders’ progress and potential debut in the NFL.
