STWF Sports|CLEVELAND|Nov. 16, 2025 — The Dawg Pound roared when Shedeur Sanders jogged onto the field for the first time in an NFL uniform. By the time the final whistle blew, that roar had been replaced with uneasy silence.
The Cleveland Browns’ rookie quarterback was unexpectedly thrust into action during Sunday’s 23–16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens after starter Dillon Gabriel suffered a concussion late in the first half. What followed was a harsh welcome to NFL life — one that showcased both the excitement around Sanders’ potential and the steep learning curve awaiting him.
A Debut Filled With Emotion — and Struggles
The electricity inside Cleveland Browns Stadium was undeniable as Sanders entered early in the third quarter. Fans had been calling for his debut for weeks, especially as Gabriel battled inconsistency since taking over QB1 duties.
Sanders completed his first two passes, momentarily fueling the hype. But reality set in fast.
On his third snap, Ravens star safety Kyle Hamilton stormed into the backfield untouched, sacking Sanders and immediately mocking him with the quarterback’s signature “Flex the Wrist Watch” celebration — a moment that sent social media buzzing.
The struggles continued on his second drive. Sanders threw behind Amari Cooper on a short route, and the ball was intercepted by rookie corner Nate Wiggins — the first interception of Sanders’ pro career.
By the end of the night, Sanders finished 4-of-16 for 47 yards, no touchdowns, and one interception. The Browns failed to score a touchdown on any of his drives.
“It was tough,” Sanders admitted postgame. “I don’t think I played good at all.”
Sanders: ‘A Lot We Need to Look At’
The rookie didn’t hide from criticism. Instead, he pointed to chemistry issues and the challenges of being thrown into a game with minimal preparation.
“I think there’s a lot of things we need to look at during the week,” Sanders said. “Even throwing routes with Jerry [Jeudy] and all those guys… I think that was my first ball to him all year.”
With Gabriel sidelined indefinitely due to concussion protocol, Sanders may very well be preparing for his first NFL start next week — a significant shift for a coaching staff that had been hesitant to play him early.
Pressure Mounting for Kevin Stefanski
The decision to stick with Gabriel prior to his injury was one of the most scrutinized in Cleveland. Gabriel, who had gone 9-of-15 for 116 yards and a touchdown before exiting, has struggled since stepping into the role last month.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski emphasized that Sunday’s move was not a benching — but a necessity.
“We trust our guys,” Stefanski said after the game. “[Sanders is] no different. Playing a backup quarterback role… that’s tough to come in there.”
Stefanski acknowledged that Sanders’ debut was far from perfect, but he expressed confidence that improvement will come with reps and preparation.
“I know there’s things he’s going to want to do better,” Stefanski added. “But that’s why we work.”
Ravens Too Much for Browns in Physical Battle
While Sanders’ debut dominated headlines, Baltimore’s defense dictated the game.
Hamilton, Wiggins, and the Ravens secondary smothered Cleveland’s passing attack. Lamar Jackson didn’t have his sharpest outing, but the Ravens leaned on ball control, timely defensive plays, and a late fourth-quarter stand to secure the win.
Baltimore moves to 7–3, strengthening its hold on the AFC North race. Cleveland, now 5–5, is clinging to playoff hopes while facing a quarterback crossroads.
What’s Next for the Browns?
If Gabriel remains in concussion protocol, Sanders could get the nod as the Browns prepare for a critical Week 12 matchup.
For a franchise that has cycled through quarterbacks for decades, the stakes are high. Sanders brings excitement — the arm talent, mobility, swagger, and star power inherited from his father, Deion Sanders. But Sunday proved the NFL is a different world.
Whether he sinks or swims in the weeks ahead could shape not just Cleveland’s season — but the direction of their future.
For now, one thing is certain:
Shedeur Sanders’ time in Cleveland has officially begun.
