Browns Sideline Kenny Pickett Amid Backup QB Battle

Kenny Pickett's chance to compete for the Cleveland Browns' backup quarterback position has been severely hindered by a hamstring injury sustained in late July, causing him to miss all preseason games, including the upcoming finale against the Los Angeles Rams. Despite returning to limited practice, Pickett is not expected to play in the preseason finale, with Joe Flacco already named the Week 1 starter and rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel actively competing for the backup role. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has indicated Pickett is progressing but not yet ready for game action, prompting the Browns to evaluate other quarterbacks for the roster as keeping four quarterbacks seems unlikely. Sanders is returning from his own injury and expected to see playing time in the finale, while Gabriel and Tyler Huntley are also in consideration as backups. The Browns face a roster decision involving Pickett, whose future with the team is uncertain, potentially leading to a trade or release depending on preseason performances. The competition and injury situations have left Pickett with limited opportunities to prove himself, putting pressure on his position within the team.