What's Happening?
Shedeur Sanders is set to start the Cleveland Browns' preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers on Friday night. According to Mary Kay Cabot of cleveland.com, Sanders will receive starter reps during the joint practice with the Panthers on Wednesday. This opportunity arises as Kenny Pickett and rookie Dillon Gabriel are dealing with hamstring injuries, limiting their practice time. Additionally, Joe Flacco, listed as the starter on the Browns' initial depth chart, will not play in the game. The Browns have signed quarterback Tyler Huntley, who is expected to relieve Sanders during the game. Sanders has had limited practice opportunities, with only four snaps against the first-team defense during training camp. Despite missing Saturday's practice due to arm soreness, Sanders returned on Monday and declared himself fully healthy.
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Why It's Important?
The decision to start Shedeur Sanders in the preseason opener is significant for the Browns as they navigate injuries within their quarterback lineup. With Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel sidelined, Sanders' performance could influence the team's quarterback strategy moving forward. This game provides Sanders a chance to demonstrate his capabilities against a first-team defense, potentially impacting his standing within the team. For the Browns, evaluating Sanders' performance is crucial in determining their depth and readiness for the regular season. The outcome of this preseason game could affect the team's decisions regarding quarterback rotations and future game strategies.
What's Next?
Following the preseason opener, the Browns will assess Sanders' performance to decide on his role in upcoming games. The team will continue to monitor the recovery of Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel, which could influence Sanders' future opportunities. Tyler Huntley's involvement in the game may also be evaluated to determine his fit within the team. The Browns' coaching staff will likely make adjustments based on the preseason performances, shaping their strategy for the regular season. Stakeholders, including fans and analysts, will be watching closely to see how Sanders adapts to the increased responsibility and whether he can secure a more permanent role.
