Kevin Stefanski hands control to Shedeur Sanders and divides opinions in Cleveland

Kevin Stefanski made a decision that shook Cleveland’s locker room. The coach gave Shedeur Sanders the keys to the offense. After only three and a half games, the head coach believed the young passer showed enough maturity to lead the team.

As Firstsportz reported, the 43-year-old coach saw clear signs of progress from Shedeur Sanders, even in the narrow loss to the Titans. For Kevin Stefanski, the rookie’s hard work and ability to learn were decisive factors.

Shedeur Sanders will start at QB for the remainder of the season pic.twitter.com/f0DWaGZzTJ

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) December 8, 2025

Support from inside the locker room

Kevin Stefanski is not alone in this gamble. Players like Alex Wright had already voiced support for the quarterback, praising his energy and daily dedication. The defensive end said Shedeur Sanders lifts the locker room with his upbeat personality and is always seen working alongside the coach.

#Browns DE Alex Wright on QB Shedeur Sanders being named the starter for the rest of the season and the energy he brings:

“He’s always that happy-go-lucky person in the locker room. When I come into the facility, I see him in the office every day with Stefanski. He’s a poised… pic.twitter.com/34Vxdze1s8

— Ashly Holder (@AshNoelleTV) December 8, 2025

That internal backing strengthens Stefanski’s confidence, knowing team chemistry with his quarterback is vital to face the tough schedule ahead.

Sanders and the challenge to prove himself

Kevin Stefanski also made it clear: the young passer still has areas to improve. Yet his performance against the Raiders and Bengals showed flashes of potential. Three touchdown passes and a rushing score convinced the coach to give him continuity.

Shedeur Sanders himself has shown composure under media pressure. Analysts like Rich Eisen praised his calm responses to tough questions, noting his maturity and ability to avoid controversy.

A future under construction

Some believe the move came a little late. Still, Kevin Stefanski knows the decision impacts not only this season but also the franchise’s future. With Shedeur Sanders as QB1, the Browns are betting on stability and growth. Fans who once doubted the rookie now see him as a figure capable of changing the team’s narrative.

“Every single time, he has nailed it when put in a position by the media or the football gods to second guess his coach or the setup around him.”@RichEisen praises Shedeur Sanders for how he’s handled the media in tough situations 👏

(via The @RichEisenShow) pic.twitter.com/Nv1BEw0iN0

— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) December 8, 2025

The coach’s confidence sends a clear message: Cleveland has a new leader on the field, and Kevin Stefanski is ready to back him all the way.