Browns Rookie QB Shedeur Sanders Progresses Amid Fourth-String Role

Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is navigating the challenges of transitioning to the NFL, particularly adapting to his role as a fourth-string quarterback and managing limited practice reps behind veterans Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel. Despite being sacked frequently in college, Sanders is focusing on improving his pocket awareness and quickening his decision-making to avoid similar pitfalls in the pros, a lesson underscored by the struggles of Deshaun Watson last season. Sanders has shown steady progress during mandatory minicamp and OTAs, impressing coaches and teammates with his accuracy and composure, though some analysts believe he should be receiving more first-team reps to accelerate his development. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski emphasizes the importance of mastering progressions for offensive efficiency, and Sanders is embracing a patient mindset, concentrating on growth and team contribution rather than immediate playing time. With Watson sidelined due to injury, the Browns face a significant quarterback decision, and some voices predict Sanders could eventually take over as the starting QB, potentially as soon as Week 1, to give the team the best chance at playoff success. Overall, Sanders is balancing the pressures of expectations and learning curves while preparing to seize his opportunity when it arises.