Former Cleveland Browns standout Josh Cribbs added fuel to the ongoing quarterback debate, saying,
“I don't think they ever intended for him to be the starter. It was about the value.”
His remark reflects a growing sense of confusion around how the Browns are handling rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders, whose role remains uncertain despite growing public interest.
Sanders has yet to play a regular-season snap since being drafted in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
The team has instead leaned on rookie Dillon Gabriel, who has thrown for 702 yards, five touchdowns, and two interceptions across six games, completing 59.9 percent of his passes.
But Cleveland’s offense has stalled, averaging only 15.8 points per game, ranking third-worst in the league. During a Thursday livestream, Sanders addressed speculation about returning to Boulder during the Browns’ Week 9 bye, saying,
“I can’t make it out there. I wish I could, though, but it just can’t happen. I got treatment out here. I gotta get ready. Big ready.”
“I gotta get ready, BIG ready,” - Shedeur Sanders says he’s staying in Cleveland during the bye week 👀👀👀👀 pic.twitter.com/0VMD2XoBhu
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) October 30, 2025
His comment suggests a focus on recovery and preparation rather than frustration, even as rumors swirl about his standing with the team.
More: Shedeur Sanders’ shot at Browns QB1 faces unexpected twist in quarterback room
Rookie’s uncertain path fuels tension
The Browns’ handling of Shedeur Sanders has become one of the most-discussed subplots of their season.
Despite an impressive college career with the Colorado Buffaloes—where he threw for 4,134 yards, 37 touchdowns, and completed 74 percent of his passes—Sanders slipped to the fifth round, signing a four-year, $4.6 million contract with Cleveland.
He entered the year as a developmental player and was recently added to the injury list with back tightness, keeping him inactive for the Week 8 loss to the New England Patriots.
While the team sits at 2-6 and last in the AFC North, head coach Kevin Stefanski reaffirmed Dillon Gabriel as the starter, even after the 32-13 defeat.
Meanwhile, speculation continues about a possible trade involving Sanders, with teams like the New York Jets, Las Vegas Raiders, and Miami Dolphins reportedly interested. As Cleveland heads into its Week 10 matchup against the Jets, Sanders remains patient but under a growing spotlight.
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