According to league sources, the Cleveland Browns plan to hand the starting quarterback role to rookie Shedeur Sanders for their preseason opener on August 8 against the Carolina Panthers. The decision is part of a deliberate evaluation plan during training camp, allowing young quarterbacks to receive valuable game reps.

Sanders, the Browns’ fifth-round pick (144th overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft, has attracted considerable attention this offseason. Though he began camp as the fourth-string QB behind veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel, his performance in practices has earned him the opportunity in the first preseason game.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski has emphasized that the team is treating the quarterback room as a true competition. The preseason opener will give Sanders a chance to showcase his arm and decision-making ability under game conditions, while coaches continue evaluating options for the regular-season roster.

Despite limited first-team reps during earlier phases of camp, Sanders has steadily built momentum. On multiple occasions, he posted strong numbers: completing 70 % of his passes, including multi-touchdown days, and drawing praise for his composure and accuracy under pressure. Analysts and former coaches—including Herm Edwards—have publicly endorsed his potential to win the QB1 job eventually.

Sanders has maintained a calm, professional demeanor throughout the process, even asking his father, Deion Sanders, to stay away from camp to avoid distractions. While his draft slide and depth-chart positioning raised eyebrows, his response in practice and his readiness to compete have silenced many critics.

With a deep and experienced QB lineup—including Flacco, Pickett, Gabriel, and now Tyler Huntley added due to injury concerns—the Browns have turned camp into a true playoff for playing time. That the team would give Sanders his first real shot in the preseason opener reinforces their growing confidence in his abilities.