A Preview of Shedeur Sanders’ Final Start as Browns Quarterback

As the Cleveland Browns head into their season finale against the Cincinnati Bengals, all eyes will be on rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. This game, set for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, marks not just another chapter in a tumultuous season but also the seventh and final start for a player who has found himself navigating a challenging landscape.

The Young Gunslinger’s Journey

Drafted as the 144th overall pick, Sanders stepped in as the starting quarterback in Week 12. With a current record of 2-4 since taking over, Sanders has shown glimpses of his potential amidst a rough 4-12 season for the Browns. Known for his strong arm and ability to extend plays, he has also battled the typical struggles that come with rookiehood—decision-making quirks and an occasional penchant for holding onto the ball a tad too long.

Sanders emphasized his focus as he prepares for the final game of the year. “Just staying consistent, taking what they give me,” he stated, underscoring his desire to refine his skills as he adapts to the NFL. Consistency has been a cornerstone of his developmental phase, especially in maintaining his rhythm even when faced with adversity.

The Pressure Cooker

One of the storylines to monitor is the immense pressure Sanders has faced. Behind a makeshift offensive line, with only one original starter from Week 1 remaining, he has been pressured on 44.1% of his dropbacks—one of the highest rates in the league. This constant rush has forced him to release the ball quickly, contributing to his average throw time of 3.22 seconds—trailing only San Francisco’s Brock Purdy.

The impact of this pressure is reflected in his statistics. Sanders ranks 28th out of 29 qualifying quarterbacks in Total QBR, as his 25.2 rating suggests a rough transition to the professional stage. With seven touchdowns and an NFL-leading seven interceptions under his belt, this uneven performance spotlighted both his capabilities and the areas where he needs to improve.

Moments of Brilliance Amidst Struggles

In a recent game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sanders’ performance served as a microcosm of his season. Completing 17 of 23 passes for 186 yards, he tossed one touchdown but was also credited with two costly interceptions. The beginning of the game showcased his best attributes—accurate passes, quick decisions, and the ability to read defenses. Yet, the rookie mistakes crept in, reminding fans and analysts alike of the learning curve he continues to navigate.

“Whenever you go through your progressions and the checkdown isn’t there, then what?” he pondered, as he reflected on the challenges he faces. Such musings signal a young player keenly aware of the tactical nuances that the position demands.

Coach’s Confidence

Head Coach Kevin Stefanski has observed week-to-week improvement in Sanders. He praised the rookie’s commitment to adjusting and learning the plays. “Continue to build on the things that he’s doing really well,” Stefanski remarked, highlighting the delicate balance between improvement and the overarching need for wins. In a league where quarterbacks are often judged harshly by their records, the sense of urgency is palpable.

The stakes for Sanders are even higher as uncertainty looms over the future of both the head coach and the quarterback position for the Browns. This final game will not only set the tone for the offseason but could also shift the organization’s strategy heading into the draft.

Future Implications

Winning against the Bengals would be vital, potentially altering their draft positioning as they aim for a higher pick—one that may lead them to a future franchise quarterback. Deshaun Watson, still recovering from an Achilles injury, is projected to return, adding to the multitude of variables for Sanders’ future. Meanwhile, third-round pick Dillon Gabriel has shown promise during his limited appearances.

In a press conference, Sanders expressed confidence in his abilities despite external noise. “I can’t think about what other people’s opinion… I know the teams that we go against… respect me in the passing game,” he asserted. The resolve to remain unfazed by other people’s expectations is indicative of a young player steadfast in his journey.

Closing Thoughts

As the Browns prepare for a game that carries implications well beyond the final score, Sanders is set to take the field with a mix of determination and resilience. The lessons learned and obstacles faced throughout this rookie season will serve as stepping stones in his quest to become the franchise cornerstone that Cleveland desperately seeks. Every snap, every throw, and every decision will be pivotal as he looks to leave a lasting impression on a team hungry for stability at the quarterback position.