Browns Confirm Shedeur Sanders Backup Role Behind Flacco, Gabriel

Shedeur Sanders, the Cleveland Browns' rookie quarterback, is currently the third-string QB behind veteran Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel, with Flacco solidifying the starting role for the 2025 season. Despite rumors suggesting Sanders was not participating in scout team reps during practice, Browns quarterbacks coach Billy Musgrave confirmed that Sanders, Gabriel, and Bailey Zappe rotate scout team duties to help prepare the defense for upcoming opponents. Musgrave emphasized that scout team reps serve a dual purpose: helping quarterbacks develop their skills while enabling the defense to prepare effectively. Sanders’ role remains primarily developmental, and with Flacco expected to retire after the season, the Browns may consider trading Sanders if he does not secure the starting position in the offseason. Questions about Sanders’ status have sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some speculation that his presence on the roster may be influenced by marketability, though the coaching staff disputes this. Overall, Sanders continues to gain practice experience but faces an uphill battle to become the Browns' starting quarterback.