Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski had raised eyebrows when choosing not to declare Shedeur Sanders as the team's back-up quarterback despite him being the only option on the roster
11:50 ET, 11 Oct 2025
Kevin Stefanski has made his decision on Shedeur Sanders
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Kevin Stefanski has made his decision on Shedeur Sanders
Kevin Stefanski confirmed Shedeur Sanders as the Cleveland Browns' back-up quarterback, days after admitting he would 'let the week play out' before making that decision.
The Browns traded Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals last week, having also sent Kenny Pickett to the Las Vegas Raiders days before the season. Flacco had started the first four games before being benched for Dillon Gabriel - who had impressive moments in his first start for the team.
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Gabriel will now be the starting quarterback for the Browns, with Sanders being the only other quarterback on the roster. Despite this, it took multiple days for Stefanski to declare him as the back-up.
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The Browns also have former New England Patriots back-up Bailey Zappe on the practice squad, who some thought they could promote to the active roster and overtake Sanders.
The door had been left open for the Browns to move for another veteran presence to be the back-up behind Gabriel.
Instead, Stefanski finally declared Sanders as the back-up on Friday. He told reporters: "Yeah. Shedeur will be the backup. Like I told you guys on Wednesday, I’m always thinking about our players and what’s best for our players.
Shedeur Sanders is closing in on his opportunity
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Shedeur Sanders is closing in on his opportunity
"And I want to make sure when it comes to young football players, particularly at the quarterback position, that you’re intentional about your decision making. That’s really all it is. So, excited for all of our guys."
Gabriel has thrown for three touchdowns and no interceptions in his limited time so far this season, but is completing just 59% of his passing attempts.
His play will be something to monitor, getting the opportunity to play much earlier than many would have presumed after the Browns made Flacco the starter.
The Browns will want to see what they have in both Gabriel and Sanders this season, with them looking to be heading for another struggling year.
Gabriel will get his opportunity to nail down the starting position
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Gabriel will get his opportunity to nail down the starting position
If they are to have one of the worst records in the league once again, then they must consider drafting a quarterback if either Gabriel or Sanders do not prove themselves to be worthy.
This year's draft class had been seen as a strong one, but now looks to be a weaker class at current. The likes of LaNorris Sellers, Garrett Nussmeier, Drew Allar and Carson Beck have had their moments, but have failed to make a strong case of being the first overall pick.
The Browns are likely to consider John Mateer and Fernando Mendoza as potential quarterbacks in the class, too.
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