The Cleveland Browns are heading into their final preseason matchup with one big question on everyone’s mind: Will Shedeur Sanders finally get back on the field? Fans have been waiting to see the rookie quarterback suit up again after his showing in Week 1, and it looks like they’ll get their answer tonight.
Will Shedeur Sanders Play in the Final Preseason Game?
According to head coach Kevin Stefanski, Sanders is anticipated to play against the Los Angeles Rams. This will be his first live action since the Carolina Panthers’ preseason opener.
Due to an oblique strain sustained during practice on August 13, the rookie was unable to play in the second preseason game. Concerns were raised when he missed a session on August 19, but he gradually recovered and began doing more reps as the week progressed.
“He’s feeling better and better, so barring any setback, if he comes in not feeling good tomorrow, which I don’t anticipate, he would play on Saturday,” Stefanski said.
For Browns fans, this is great news. Sanders was very excited going into camp, and his performance against the Panthers in Week 1 gave hints as to why the team is so optimistic about his future. He will now have the opportunity to improve on that and, more significantly, contend for the No. 2 spot behind veteran starter Joe Flacco.
Shedeur Sanders continues to impress with his maturity:
“My time whenever it is, I’m going to be ready and embrace that. In due time, I’ve got many things I need to fix. I’m not oblivious to that. All I look at it is, I’m getting more time to cook.” pic.twitter.com/vIJctAgKwr
— Nick Karns (@karnsies817) August 21, 2025
Flacco will start the game against the Rams, while fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel will take reps as the backup before Sanders comes in. Gabriel returned from a hamstring injury last week and held his own against the Eagles, keeping the backup battle alive. But this final game could tip the scales.
That’s where things get interesting. Sanders and Gabriel are both hungry and talented, and both know that Stefanski will be watching closely before setting the Week 1 depth chart. Gabriel’s steady play last week gives him a case, but Sanders’ Week 1 outing arguably showed a little more upside, and Browns fans haven’t forgotten it.
What’s Really at Stake for Sanders Tonight?
This isn’t just about preseason snaps anymore. It’s about building trust and momentum and showing Stefanski who can truly step into the spotlight if Flacco ever needs relief during the 2025 season.
The atmosphere around Sanders is buzzing, and it’s not just because of his last name. Fans have been following his recovery closely, flooding social media with anticipation and rallying around the idea of seeing him back under center.
So, as the Browns take the field tonight, all eyes won’t just be on Flacco steering the first drive. They’ll be waiting for Sanders to jog onto the field, helmet strapped, ready to show Cleveland why he belongs.
