Shedeur Sanders hints at starting ambitions as Dillon Gabriel faces uncertainty under Stefanski

Shedeur Sanders continues to generate buzz in Cleveland as the Browns struggle to find stability at quarterback.

The rookie, son of Coach Prime, has become a hot topic after seemingly expressing his discontent with Dillon Gabriel, the team’s current starter, hinting at his QB1 aspirations.

Shedeur Sanders casts a shadow over Dillon Gabriel

On Monday, Browns reporter Brad Stainbrook shared on Twitter that Shedeur Sanders had interacted with an Instagram post calling for his promotion to starter following Gabriel underwhelming streak.

“The #Browns quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, liked my Instagram post asking the team to start the former Colorado QB after the bye week,” Stainbrook tweeted.

This action has sparked speculation about Sanders stance on Gabriel performance and its potential impact on the locker room dynamic.

#Browns QB Shedeur Sanders liked my Instagram post where I called for the team to start the former Colorado quarterback following the bye week. pic.twitter.com/Y2YxBL6Euz

— Brad Stainbrook (@StainbrookNFL) October 28, 2025

The Browns started the season with Joe Flacco as their starter, but after a disappointing 1-3 start, Kevin Stefanski gave Dillon Gabriel an opportunity.

Since then, Gabriel has recorded 702 yards and five touchdowns, but his recent loss to the Patriots (21 of 35 passes for 156 yards, two TDs, and two interceptions) has reignited the debate over whether Shedeur Sanders should take over the role.

Criticism and mounting QB expectations

ESPN analyst Tony Rizzo didn’t hold back his frustration over the Browns’ decision to limit Shedeur Sanders playing time.

“I’ve heard from people across the league who can’t believe the Browns haven’t prepared Shedeur Sanders to play,” Rizzo commented on his show.

The rookie’s push in the starting quarterback debate highlights that Sanders is not only seeking playing time but also making it clear that he has the ambition and talent to lead the team.

As Cleveland prepares to face the New York Jets on November 9 following their bye week, tensions continue to rise.

Shedeur Sanders social media interactions and his quiet but strategic presence in the starting quarterback conversation have made the young signal-caller the focal point of the Browns’ narrative.