The Cleveland Browns stunned the NFL world on Monday morning with a major announcement — one that immediately shifted the tone of their upcoming matchup. After days of speculation and behind-the-scenes evaluation, the team revealed a decision that could redefine their offense heading into Week 12. And at the center of the breaking development is Shedeur Sanders.
In a move that signals a new direction for the franchise, the Browns officially named Shedeur Sanders the starting quarterback for this week’s showdown against the Las Vegas Raiders, a decision confirmed by team sources shortly after practice wrapped.
Shedeur Sanders Takes Over the Offense
Nov 16, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) walks off the field following a game against the Baltimore Ravens at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Nov 16, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland quarterback Sanders (12) walks off the field following a game against the Baltimore Ravens at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images’-0=
After weeks of uncertainty surrounding the Browns’ quarterback situation — including injuries, inconsistency, and an underperforming passing attack — the coaching staff decided it was time for a change. That change comes in the form of Sanders, the rookie quarterback whose entrance into the league has been one of the league’s most talked-about storylines:
-[-According to ESPN NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler, Sanders will start for Cleveland against the Las Vegas Raiders this coming Sunday. It will be the first start of the former fifth-round pick’s career in just his second NFL appearance.
“The Browns plan to announce Shedeur Sanders as the starter for Sunday vs. Las Vegas, per the team. Dillon Gabriel still in protocol. The fifth-round pick will make his first NFL start,” Fowler wrote on X this morning.
A Bold Move With High Stakes
The Browns currently sit 2-8 in a tightly packed AFC race, where a single game can determine playoff trajectory. For Cleveland, this point in the season:
Sanders brings:
serious arm strength
A quick-release passing style
Mobility under pressure
A natural instinct for extending plays
But he also brings the unknown. This will be his first NFL start, and it comes in a nationally spotlighted game against a Raiders defense known for its aggressiveness.
Still, Cleveland believes the upside is worth it.
Why the Browns Chose This Moment
The decision reportedly hinged on three major factors:
1. Dillon Gabriel Injury
While Sanders has earned this opportunity, it is Dillon Gabriel’s concussion that opened the door for Shedeur’s first start.
2. Strong internal support
Veterans on both sides of the ball reportedly voiced confidence in Sanders during team meetings. Leadership inside the locker room played a role in the timing of the move.
3. The Raiders matchup
Las Vegas’ defense brings pressure but also leaves windows for big plays — especially for quarterbacks capable of moving outside the pocket. Sanders fits that mold perfectly.
A Massive Spotlight for Shedeur Sanders
This moment isn’t just significant for the Browns — it’s massive for Shedeur Sanders, the highly scrutinized, highly discussed rookie whose transition to the NFL has been one of the league’s most followed stories.
From his electric college career to the intense media presence around him, Sanders has thrived in high-pressure environments before. But now, he faces the ultimate test: proving he can lead an NFL franchise on short notice.
He will now enter Sunday’s game as the Browns’ new offensive leader, with millions watching to see how he handles the moment.
What Comes Next
The Browns are expected to tailor a game plan specifically around Sanders’ strengths, with quick reads, motion-heavy sets, and opportunities for him to improvise on broken plays. Coaches have already hinted that they intend to “let him play his game.”
Kickoff versus the Raiders is now one of the most anticipated matchups of the week — not because of playoff implications, but because the Browns just handed the keys to Shedeur Sanders.
Win or lose, this is a franchise-shifting decision.
For Football Content:
Follow me on X (formerly Twitter) at @mcquadewarnold . Also, do not forget to follow us at On Twitter for even more great football content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in the world of Football – especially with all the trade rumors swirling around and free agency new s – college football, and more,click here!