As the Browns gear up for their first preseason game, they have designated which quarterback will start the season. Head coach Kevin Stefanski announced prior to the joint practice with the Panthers that rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders will be the starter for August 8.
With injuries affecting their quarterback depth—both Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel are recovering from hamstring injuries—Stefanski confirmed that neither will play in the upcoming game against the Panthers. However, both will participate in limited reps during the joint practice with Charlotte, specifically in 7-on-7 drills.
In response to the injury situation, the Browns signed Tyler Huntley on August 5 to add depth at QB. Stefanski said they are using the next couple of days to bring Huntley up to speed so he’s ready for the first preseason matchup.
Stefanski noted that Sanders won’t see additional reps during the joint practice to prepare for Friday’s game; instead, he plans to gain extra reps during the game itself.
Throughout training camp, Sanders has been actively preparing for his role, participating in various team drills with different groups of offensive and defensive players, connecting with multiple pass catchers, and rotating with different offensive linemen and centers.
He also took extra reps during post-practice periods, known as the “Hungry Dawgs” sessions, to further develop his skills ahead of the regular-season.
“My expectations for Shedeur are not different than the rest of the guys, honestly,” Stefanski said. “We expect him to go operate. When you get into these preseason games, you try and keep it very simple so guys can play fast. All concepts that our players know and not think too much and just play ball.”
