Within the Cleveland Browns, uncertainty surrounds the backup quarterback position. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has not yet revealed who will assume the backup role for rookie Dillon Gabriel in the upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Shedeur Sanders: Optimism on the Horizon
Shedeur Sanders, who has been in the fourth quarterback position during training camp, expressed his optimism about the situation. “I see a light at the end of the tunnel,” Sanders declared, adding that he feels mentally strong and grateful for any role assigned to him. Stefanski has remained cautious about whether Sanders or Bailey Zappe, from the practice squad, will be Gabriel’s backup. Joe Flacco’s recent transfer to the Cincinnati Bengals has left Gabriel and Sanders as the only quarterbacks on the active roster. Sanders, son of Hall of Famer and Colorado football coach Deion Sanders, has spent the first five weeks of the season as the inactive emergency quarterback. Despite having limited opportunities during the summer, he managed to make the 53-man roster after Kenny Pickett was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders and Tyler Huntley was released. During the first month of the season, Sanders shared the scouting team practices with Gabriel and Zappe.Browns offensive coordinator Tommy Rees praised Sanders’ preparation.“We will make sure to do everything we can to get Dillon ready for the game,” Sanders stated. “I feel very confident in myself. I know that when I got here, I was ready to play, but it’s up to the coaches and the decision they make, I’m okay with it.”
Shedeur Sanders
Last week, Sanders was criticized after making gestures in response to questions about the Browns’ quarterback change. Sanders responded to critical comments from ESPN analyst Rex Ryan. Sanders declined to respond to Ryan’s comments, but said he wanted to be mindful of how his comments and personality might be interpreted.“We are looking for constant improvement throughout the season, and he has done that,” Rees said. “I think you see the growth and familiarity with the offense and what we ask of those guys. I think the level of preparation that is needed week after week when putting together a new game plan, it’s a learning curve for all rookies. So I think he’s gotten more used to that, he’s caught up, he’s done a good job in his preparation and in understanding what the game plan contains. And when he’s had the opportunity to operate it, he’s done a good job.”
Tommy Rees
“I guess not everyone likes to play all the time,” Sanders said. “So it’s understanding how to be on at all times and keep my personality a little bit thinner, I guess. Because not everyone understands it at all times and you may not have full time to be able to explain things.”
Shedeur Sanders
