Roster Shakeup: Shedeur Sanders Dealt Brutal News Ahead of Browns Preseason Opener
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
Where is Shedeur Sanders going to stand on the roster when the season begins?
Sanders is coming up on his second season with the Cleveland Browns. He is locked in a high-profile, open quarterback competition with veteran Deshaun Watson for the Cleveland Browns’ starting job heading into the season.
He certainly got some bad news this week.
Cleveland Browns Hand Shedeur Sanders Tough News Before Preseason Game
A significant lineup change ahead of an upcoming preseason football matchup has put young quarterback Shedeur Sanders in the headlines. The dynamic Cleveland signal-caller will officially back up veteran Deshaun Watson during the team’s highly anticipated exhibition opener against the Chicago Bears.
Watson is scheduled to start the contest while Sanders is expected to see action later in the game. The arrangement gives the veteran the first opportunity to make a strong impression under live conditions.
Coaches have described the quarterback competition as ongoing, yet the starting order carries clear significance.
Sanders Faces Backup Role in Preseason Opener
Analysts following the Browns closely interpret the decision as an indication that Watson currently holds the edge in the battle for the starting job. Shedeur Sanders will still receive meaningful snaps and is lined up to start the following preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.
The latest roster scratch marks an unfortunate minor setback for the highly competitive athlete. Lately, the prominent young quarterback has remained entirely focused on mastering the complex playbook before the regular season.
Unfortunately, NFL coaches and execs do not think much of him. Shedeur Sanders was ranked 35th out of 35 starting-caliber quarterbacks by NFL coaches and executives.
They cited poor rookie analytics and concerns over his play style. Despite this, evaluators noted potential upside under new offensive coordinator Todd Monken as training camp competition continues.
Shedeur Sanders completed 120 of 212 passes for 1,400 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions during his 2025 rookie regular season.
