DOJO – Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders will stay under center for the Cleveland Browns this Sunday when they host the San Francisco 49ers. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed the decision on Monday, keeping the fifth-round pick in the starting role even though fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel has cleared concussion protocol.
Sanders delivered a composed and efficient debut in Cleveland’s 24–10 win over the Las Vegas Raiders, completing 11 of 20 passes for 209 yards, one touchdown and one interception. The performance earned him another week as QB1.
Why Stefanski Is Sticking With Sanders
Stefanski praised Sanders’ poise, decision-making and execution, highlighting that the rookie handled his first NFL start with maturity.
“The number one job of a quarterback is to win,” Stefanski said. “Excited to get that first win under his belt. The next thing is improvement, and that’s what young quarterbacks do.”
Although Stefanski avoided long-term declarations, he made it clear the focus remains on this week. Sanders, therefore, controls the job for now through performance.
How Sanders Earned the Opportunity
Sanders’ debut produced Cleveland’s two longest pass plays of the season — a 66-yard touchdown to rookie Dylan Sampson and a 52-yard deep strike to Isaiah Bond. He was sacked just once and showed strong pocket awareness, even when pressured on eight of his 21 dropbacks.
The rookie appeared calm throughout, later saying he felt “very relaxed” now that he is practicing regularly with the first team.
Sanders also made Browns history. He became the first Cleveland rookie quarterback to win his debut since Eric Zeier in 1995, snapping a 17-game losing streak by Browns quarterbacks making their first career start. It was the longest streak by any NFL franchise since 1950.
Where Gabriel Stands Now
Dillon Gabriel, who started six games this season, will return as backup after passing concussion protocol. Cleveland went 1–4 in his starts, and he has thrown seven touchdowns with two interceptions while completing 59.2% of his passes.
Gabriel suffered his concussion during Cleveland’s Week 11 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, which opened the door for Sanders’ rise.
What Comes Next for Cleveland
The Browns face a tougher challenge this Sunday when the 49ers arrive in Cleveland. Sanders’ first win showcased explosive potential, but Stefanski emphasized continued growth and cleaner execution.
For now, the Shedeur Sanders Browns era continues into Week 13 — and Cleveland fans finally have momentum at the quarterback position.
