Shedeur Sanders is now just one play away from making his official NFL regular-season debut.
The highly scrutinised Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback was promoted to the QB2 spot this week, directly behind starter Dillon Gabriel, after the franchise surprisingly traded veteran Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals.
The sudden shift in the depth chart has reignited the intense debate over whether Sanders will get a starting opportunity before the season concludes.
The move by the Browns is a clear signal that the franchise is betting on its young core.
With the team sitting at 1-3, the pressure will be immense on Gabriel to perform, and Sanders will be waiting in the wings to seize his moment.
The path to the starting job is now clear
The trade of Joe Flacco removed the veteran competition, leaving only Dillon Gabriel and a practice squad quarterback between Sanders and the starting job.
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The former Colorado star, who was the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2024, has not shied away from his ambition.
Sanders recently stated in an interview that he is "ready to play right now" and believes he is "capable of doing better" than some current NFL starting quarterbacks.
The promotion to backup status is a clear affirmation that the coaching staff has been impressed by his "poise, accuracy, and ability to adapt to the NFL pace."
The crucial test of the Week 9 bye
The next few weeks will be crucial for Shedeur Sanders's development.
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While Dillon Gabriel is the starter for the foreseeable future, many NFL insiders believe the Week 9 bye provides the most realistic window for a change.
Coach Kevin Stefanski would have two full weeks to build an offensive game plan around Sanders's unique skillset, which includes a willingness to extend the play and create big plays down the field.
The pressure on Dillon Gabriel is immense.
If Gabriel falters in the next few games, the franchise may have no choice but to turn to Sanders.
The team, which is still without franchise quarterback Deshaun Watson (recovering from an Achilles injury), needs to find a long-term solution at the position soon.
More Cleveland Browns news:
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