Shedeur Sanders under the microscope: the harsh reality in Cleveland
NFL analyst Nick Wright didn’t hesitate to criticize Shedeur Sanders for his underwhelming performance during training camp and the preseason.
“He was never going to be the Browns starting quarterback in Week 1,” Wright stated on his YouTube channel.
He explained that Cleveland plan was always for one of the veterans to start while the younger players provided support.
Sanders minor injury and inconsistent performance opened the door for Dillon Gabriel to solidify his position as the backup.
Performances that made the difference
During the preseason games, Shedeur Sanders struggled with holding the ball too long, resulting in multiple sacks. A problem he also faced in college.
In contrast, Dillon Gabriel improved significantly after a rough start, showing greater consistency and effectiveness in the second and third preseason games.
Wright emphasized that the decision to make Gabriel the backup was neither unfair nor conspiratorial: “That’s life in the NFL as a late-round draft pick. That’s what happened here.”
Sanders performance came under intense scrutiny, and while some analysts labeled it disastrous. His inclusion on the roster demonstrates that the Browns still have confidence in his development.
Coaching support and the season ahead
Head coach Kevin Stefanski defended his handling of Shedeur Sanders, explaining that the decision not to let him run the game-winning series was strategic.
Tyler Huntley led the offense during that series, and Stefanski insisted that external criticism would not affect his approach.
“I’m not concerned with outside matters, but I’m committed to his development, just like all our rookies,” Stefanski said.
