Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders fired off a three-word message on social media after being promoted to the backup spot ahead of Week 6.
Sanders was officially named the No. 2 option in Cleveland, behind rookie starter Dillon Gabriel. There was speculation that the Browns could promote practice squad passer Bailey Zappe to leapfrog Sanders, but the team opted to stick with the former Colorado star.
“I’m always thinking about our players and what’s best for our players,” Browns coach Kevin Stefanski said. “And I want to make sure when it comes to young football players, particularly at the quarterback position, that you are intentional about your decision making and that’s really all it is. So, excited for all of our guys.”
Stefanski stressed that the move to the backup spot will be an adjustment for Sanders.
“Obviously that backup quarterback role is a little bit different,” he said. “We’re doing everything we can to support the starter, and then you have to be ready in a moment’s notice. That’s just the life of backup players at every position. And we’ve said that here over the years all the time that you have to stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. But again, that’s our job as coaches, as players to be ready when called upon.”
Sanders has not spoken to the media since the move but did put up a post on social media.
“Thank you GOD,” Sanders said. It’s a message that Sanders has repeated routinely over the past few years.
Browns QB Shedeur Sanders Backs Dillon Gabriel
A rivalry narrative has swirled around Gabriel and Sanders — two rookies eager to carve out their place in the NFL. But Sanders brushed off the speculation, emphasizing that he’s focused on supporting Gabriel as he prepares for his second start.
“We’re going to make sure we do everything we can to make sure Dillon is ready for the game,” Sanders said. “So each and every day, even when Joe (Flacco) was the starter, everything. Prepare the right way and be ready to know that you could get out there any point in time. So, I’m overly confident within myself. I know when I first got here, I’m ready to play, but it’s up to the coaches and whatever decision they make, then I’m fine with.”
Now in the No. 2 spot, Sanders has a realistic chance to get on the field this season if Gabriel struggles. However, the Browns will give Gabriel — a third-round pick — an extended leash, which will likely be longer than what Flacco got during his 1-3 start.
Gabriel passed for 190 yards and two touchdowns in his debut last week in London during a 21-17 loss to the Vikings.
Shedeur Sanders Thankful for Role With Browns
Sanders has been navigating an interesting situation in Cleveland since falling to the fifth round. The Browns selected him with pick No. 144 and have been very clear that they view him as a developmental prospect.
Sanders has worked almost exclusively with backup players and ran the scout team when he was in the No. 3 QB role. He’s looking to thrive in whatever task is assigned to him.
“I’m in a great mental space overall, so I would say you tend to get a little bit more excited when you see a light at the end of the tunnel, for sure,” he said. “So my job at first was to prepare the defense, and I think I did a pretty good job. Nah, but they got Myles Garrett and everybody over there, so, you know.
“But anyways, I think I did a pretty good job, and whatever my role is here, I’m thankful and I’m happy just to do that.”
Gabriel, Sanders, and the Browns head to Pittsburgh this week to take on the Steelers.
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