Joe Flacco had entered the season, hoping to stop the count at 40. Instead, just four games into the season, marred by six interceptions, the Cleveland Browns swiftly moved on to Dillon Gabriel, their 41st starting quarterback in 26 years. Yes, that reeks of desperation for a team dying to find a franchise QB. But, it also shows that Kevin Stefanski & Co. are strictly in low-tolerance mode. The result? Shedeur Sanders’ QB2 future hanging by a thread, despite team offensive coordinator Tommy Rees almost hinting otherwise.

“We’re looking for constant improvement throughout the season, and [Shedeur’s] done that,” the coach said as per ESPN’s Daniel Oyefusi. “I think you see the growth and the familiarity of the offense and what we’re asking of those guys. I think the level of preparation, it takes weeks when you’re putting a new game plan together. That’s a learning curve for all rookies.

So, I think he’s gotten more used to that, getting up to speed, doing a nice job in his preparation and understanding what the game plan holds. And when he’s had his opportunities to operate, he’s done a nice job.”

If we strictly look at it stats-wise, divert your eyes. Sanders spent the first five games of the season as an inactive emergency quarterback and has yet to record a single play. But just for argument’s sake, even if we visit his preseason numbers, there’s not much. We’re talking 7 sacks in two games (including 5 alone vs the Los Angeles Rams), two touchdowns, and a completion rate of 58.6%. Perhaps this explains why Kevin Stefanski is not too keen on handing him the responsibility just yet.

“All roster-type of things, I always have to be mindful of our players and our players’ development,” the head coach said ahead of Wednesday’s practice when asked about Sanders being promoted to No. 2. “And I want to make sure that I’m always doing what’s best for our players and, of course, our team.

“Last week, making the change to Dillon, you have to think long and hard about that, because these are young players that you are so invested in their development. So, I’ll let the decision play out and make a decision later,” he also said.

Interestingly, even though Sanders and Gabriel are the only two QBs on the main roster, the Browns also have four-year veteran with nine starts, Bailey Zappe, on the practice squad since August. He could be added to the active roster to serve as the backup instead of rushing through Sanders’ development. But what does Sanders think?

Shedeur Sanders is ready to be on the field

Rookie Shedeur Sanders is navigating a significant shift in the team’s quarterback room following the trade of veteran Joe Flacco. With fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel confirmed as the starter for Week 6, he has shown his maturity in the situation, while also being confident.

“I just prepare the right way and know that I could get out there at any point in time.”

Sanders’ recent comments reflect a more measured tone compared to his earlier, more controversial declaration that he was ready to play and could outperform some of the quarterbacks he’d seen around the league. Recently, while speaking with the media, he mentioned how he’s ready for every opportunity that is being presented to him.

“I feel like now I’m ready — not saying I wasn’t ready before — but now I’m ready for whenever my opportunity is,” Sanders said. As the 23-year-old is focused on his practice for the position, all that remains is an official confirmation from the team.

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