Cleveland Browns QB Contenders Emerge as Franchise Seeks Stability
The Cleveland Browns are poised to kick off a new era under their recently appointed head coach, and one position that remains shrouded in uncertainty is quarterback. The franchise has long struggled to find success at this pivotal position, with various candidates vying for the top spot.
Veteran Joe Flacco started the season as the starter, but was soon supplanted by rookie Dillion Gabriel before ultimately handing the reins to Shedeur Sanders. Now, the young signal-caller is being given a real chance to prove himself as the Browns' primary quarterback.
According to The Athletic's Zac Jackson, the team's likely plan involves restructures and keeping Deshaun Watson on board for one more year at an estimated $40 million salary cap hit, rather than parting ways with the troubled veteran. Meanwhile, Sanders will be competing directly with another potential draft pick, with early signs pointing to a developmental rookie getting a chance to eventually play.
While Sanders' metrics don't paint a picture of immediate success β 1,400 yards passing for seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions in his eight-game rookie stint β he did showcase flashes of upside through highlight throws. A full offseason to grow and develop could see him become the player his supporters believe he can be.
Next year will be the defining season for Sanders, who should end up getting the starting nod if no other prominent name emerges. If the new coach believes in him, and Sanders takes the opportunity seriously, he could potentially show the Browns enough to build around or even showcase his skills to another team down the line.
The Cleveland Browns are poised to kick off a new era under their recently appointed head coach, and one position that remains shrouded in uncertainty is quarterback. The franchise has long struggled to find success at this pivotal position, with various candidates vying for the top spot.
Veteran Joe Flacco started the season as the starter, but was soon supplanted by rookie Dillion Gabriel before ultimately handing the reins to Shedeur Sanders. Now, the young signal-caller is being given a real chance to prove himself as the Browns' primary quarterback.
According to The Athletic's Zac Jackson, the team's likely plan involves restructures and keeping Deshaun Watson on board for one more year at an estimated $40 million salary cap hit, rather than parting ways with the troubled veteran. Meanwhile, Sanders will be competing directly with another potential draft pick, with early signs pointing to a developmental rookie getting a chance to eventually play.
While Sanders' metrics don't paint a picture of immediate success β 1,400 yards passing for seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions in his eight-game rookie stint β he did showcase flashes of upside through highlight throws. A full offseason to grow and develop could see him become the player his supporters believe he can be.
Next year will be the defining season for Sanders, who should end up getting the starting nod if no other prominent name emerges. If the new coach believes in him, and Sanders takes the opportunity seriously, he could potentially show the Browns enough to build around or even showcase his skills to another team down the line.