Cleveland’s situation took an unexpected turn. Shedeur Sanders will make his first NFL start, stepping in after Dillon Gabriel suffered a concussion in the loss to the Ravens. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said they will evaluate Gabriel day by day, but all signs point to Sanders starting against the Raiders.
Sanders made his debut in Week 11 in a 23-16 loss to Baltimore. His performance was rough: he completed just 4 of 16 passes for 47 yards, threw an interception, and added three runs for 16 yards.
A debut fueled by high expectations
According to the New York Post, fans still praised Sanders’ arrival. “Yes, I’m extremely grateful… I don’t like that Dillon isn’t feeling comfortable or confident… it puts everyone in a tough situation,” the quarterback said.
¡¡BOMBAZO!!
ÚLTIMA HORA: Shedeur Sanders hará su debut como mariscal de campo de los Browns. Dillon Gabriel está siendo evaluado por una posible conmoción cerebral y no regresará su partido. Se viene el debut más esperando del año. ¿Cómo le irá a la súper estrella? pic.twitter.com/57VachHgsZ— Americano a lo Mexicano (@AmeAloMex) November 16, 2025
Choosing Sanders as the starter wasn’t easy. Gabriel was drafted two rounds earlier and got the first shot after Joe Flacco’s departure. However, his numbers have disappointed: 937 yards, seven touchdowns, and a 30.9 QBR. Gabriel’s injury gives Stefanski a chance to test Sanders without controversy. “We trust our guys… Shedeur is ready to go,” the coach said.
Sanders now faces the challenge of proving he can be a long-term answer. Since 1999, the Browns have had 41 different starting quarterbacks. Sanders will be number 42. His first test comes against a Raiders defense that showed weaknesses against the Cowboys. “I think you learn from every play… there will always be good and bad things,” Stefanski reflected.
The pressure is high. Cleveland sits at 2-8, last in the AFC North. Sanders arrives carrying the weight of his father Deion Sanders’ legacy, but he must build his own story. The team hopes this start marks the beginning of a new chapter. If he delivers, he could change the trajectory of a franchise desperate for stability at the most important position in the sport.
