After weeks of uncertainty and speculation surrounding the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation, there’s finally some clarity, and a major opportunity ahead for one of the most talked-about rookies of the offseason.
Shedeur Sanders, the former Colorado star and son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, is expected to be the starting quarterback for the Browns’ preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers this Friday.
Shedeur Sanders Gets Nod to Start Friday’s Preseason Opener
The news, first reported by Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot, comes amid a wave of injuries in the Browns’ quarterback room. Kenny Pickett and rookie Dillon Gabriel are both nursing hamstring injuries, leaving the door open for Sanders to enter the spotlight.
#Browns QB Shedeur Sanders is expected to start Friday night’s preseason opener on the road vs. the #Panthers with Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel both nursing hamstring injuries, source tells clevelanddotcom: —-> https://t.co/rGobOe9RtW
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) August 5, 2025
This moment has been a long time coming for Sanders, who was listed as the fourth-string quarterback on the Browns’ initial unofficial depth chart. Many fans and analysts were stunned to see him that low, especially after reports of strong performances in early training camp.
With Tyler Huntley recently signed to the roster, some began to question whether the Browns truly saw Sanders as a future piece of the franchise or simply a camp body with a famous last name.
Now, those questions may finally start to get answered.
The pressure will undoubtedly be there, but if there’s one thing Sanders has never lacked, it’s confidence. Having played under immense scrutiny during his time at Jackson State and Colorado, both times under the watchful eye of his father, Sanders is no stranger to big moments. This Friday, however, he’ll be taking the field without his father on the sidelines. For the first time in a while, it’s all on him.
Fan reactions to the news of his start have already begun to swing. Social media is filled with excitement, anticipation, and cautious optimism. Many who were calling for a trade just days ago are now eager to see what Sanders can do with the reps he’s been waiting for.
Sanders Has the Opportunity To Shine in Browns Debut
From being an underdog on a crowded depth chart to now leading the offense for the preseason opener, this shift marks a potential turning point in Sanders’ young NFL career. He doesn’t have to be perfect; he just needs to show he belongs.
There is no doubt that Sanders will be the center of attention on Friday night. Regardless of his success or failure, this game can change the discourse surrounding his future in Cleveland and possibly the NFL.
Sanders has a straightforward opportunity to demonstrate that the Browns made the correct decision.
