The Cleveland Browns are running out of time to turn their season around, and with a 2-6 record, every move is critical. As the team returns from its bye week to prepare for a Week 10 matchup against the New York Jets, a key piece is returning to the sideline. Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders has been cleared to play, providing a much-needed option for a team desperate for stability.
What Does Shedeur Sanders’ Return Mean for the Browns?
The Browns confirmed on Friday that Sanders will be active for the trip to MetLife Stadium, serving as the backup to starter Dillon Gabriel. ESPN’s Daniel Oyefusi first reported the news.
Shedeur Sanders does not have a game status and will be the backup QB on Sunday after being inactive in Week 8 with a back injury.
— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) November 7, 2025
“Shedeur Sanders does not have a game status and will be the backup QB on Sunday after being inactive in Week 8 with a back injury,” Oyefusi posted on X.
This development marks a significant step for the rookie, who was inactive for Cleveland’s 32-13 loss to the New England Patriots before the team’s Week 9 bye. In his absence, Bailey Zappe was elevated to serve as the No. 2 quarterback. Earlier in the week, head coach Kevin Stefanski expressed caution about Sanders’ status, telling reporters, “he will return to practice in a limited capacity today, need to see how his back responds this week before determining if he’ll be QB2 on Sunday.”
“We need to see how he responds,” Stefanski had noted. “Obviously, he’s pushing very hard in rehab, but we need to see how he does over the next couple of days.”
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Sanders’ availability provides crucial insurance, especially given the team’s current starters’ performance. According to PFSN’s QB Impact metric, Gabriel holds a QB Impact Score of 52.3, which ranks 37th this season. Having started four games and played in six, he has completed 85 of 142 passes for a 59.9 percent completion rate, earning an overall “F” grade for his outings so far.
These numbers underscore why the Browns need Sanders to be available. The quarterback room is skinny following the trade of Joe Flacco to the division rival Cincinnati Bengals last month, making a reliable backup essential. While Sanders is not expected to replace Gabriel immediately, his presence provides stability.
The Browns selected Sanders with the 144th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, viewing him as a long-term answer at the position. After impressing during training camp, he has been patiently waiting for his opportunity and has not yet made his regular-season debut.
Before the back injury, Sanders was taking second-team reps and traveling with the active roster each week. His return to the lineup gives Cleveland more security at the most critical position as the team attempts to climb back into contention in the AFC North.