Shedeur Sanders Set to Play in Preseason Finale Against Rams

Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is slated to participate in the team’s preseason finale against the Los Angeles Rams on March 25, 2024. Coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Sanders will take the field, barring any setbacks, after returning to practice this week following a minor oblique strain. In addition to Sanders, undrafted rookie wide receiver Isaiah Bond will also make his debut after signing with the team earlier this week.

Stefanski indicated that the Browns plan to utilize their starters for approximately 20 to 25 snaps during the game. Newly appointed starting quarterback Joe Flacco will lead the starting lineup, while rookie Dillon Gabriel has been designated as the backup, placing Sanders in the third position for the game.

The Browns’ preparation has been complicated by injuries. Quarterback Kenny Pickett returned to 11-on-11 drills this week but will not be participating in Saturday’s game due to a lingering hamstring injury.

Controversy Surrounding Gabriel’s Comments

While Sanders is focused on his performance, he addressed the controversy stemming from comments made by Gabriel during a recent CBS Sports broadcast. Gabriel mentioned “entertainers” and “competitors” in the context of the Browns’ quarterback competition, leading some social media users to speculate that the remarks were aimed at Sanders.

Gabriel later clarified that his comments were not directed at Sanders, instead referring to the media’s portrayal of the quarterback situation. Sanders confirmed that Gabriel reached out to him to clarify, stating, “He came up, he was like, ‘Nah bro, that wasn’t at you.’”

Sanders expressed that he is not affected by such remarks. “Honestly, I don’t even think about nothing. I know that God put the ability and the power within me to not even think about nobody else’s comments,” he said. He emphasized that outside opinions do not influence his mindset or performance.

As one of the season’s most talked-about rookies, Sanders has generated significant attention, not only for his skills but also due to his family background. He is the son of Deion Sanders, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and current head coach at the University of Colorado.

Sanders is looking to make a strong impression in the upcoming game, where he hopes to showcase the abilities that brought him into the spotlight, despite being drafted in the fifth round, two rounds after Gabriel. His journey has been closely followed, and fans are eager to see how he capitalizes on this opportunity.