Is Shedeur Sanders doing enough to earn the starting quarterback job for the Cleveland Browns next season? The Browns suffered their 12th loss on Sunday, 23-20 at home to the Buffalo Bills.
Before and after the game, Bills head coach Sean McDermott issued praise for Sanders:
Following the victory, McDermott focused more on his defense's performance, and how they were able to force turnovers. Sanders was 20/29 for 157-passing yards, 1-TD/2-INTs, was sacked twice, rushed for 49-yards with a QBR of 26.3.
National NFL media, like Pro Football Hall of Fame tight end Shannon Sharpe, posted on X during the game, "Shedeur, what was that? You're 2 casually with that throw." This was in reference to one of the quarterback's two interceptions.
The former University of Colorado standout had four total passes batted down, and was hesitant to attempt more aggressive downfield throws. The lack of deep ball tosses was perplexing to fans and media alike, after he averaged 8.7 yards-per-attempt, and threw for three touchdowns two weeks prior versus the Titans.
Some local Cleveland media are blaming the coaching for Sanders' play, and the offense as a whole.
ESPN Cleveland host Tony Rizzo stated Monday, "We can't properly judge Shedeur Sanders because the coaching is so bad." Head coach Kevin Stefanski's seat becomes hotter by the day, as the Browns offense (ranked 31st at 16.4 points-per-game) continues to sputter, and the losses mount.
In six game appearances (five starts), Sanders ranks 40th in ESPN passer rating. While that number appears devastating, it's worth a reminder that the rookie received zero reps with first team players until Week 12.
Sanders has two games left to try and prove to the organization that they don't need to select a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft. Next up are the rival Pittsburgh Steelers at home on Sunday afternoon.