Shedeur Sanders Shines in NFL Debut as Browns Dominate Panthers in Preseason Opener

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Shedeur Sanders Impresses on NFL Debut as Browns Cruise Past Panthers

Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders made an immediate impact in his first NFL action, guiding his team to a convincing 30-10 preseason victory over the Carolina Panthers on Friday night. The son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, the 22-year-old showcased the poise and playmaking ability that made him a standout at Colorado, completing 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns while adding 23 rushing yards.

Key Moments from Sanders’ Debut

  • First NFL Touchdown: Sanders connected with wide receiver Kaden Davis on a 7-yard strike in the second quarter, capping a short-field drive set up by a Panthers special teams miscue.
  • Second Scoring Pass: Later in the half, he delivered another touchdown throw, demonstrating his ability to progress through reads and deliver under pressure.
  • Extended Playing Time: Originally slated for around 50 snaps, Sanders played 45 before giving way to backup Tyler Huntley late in the third quarter.

Postgame Reactions

Shedeur Sanders:
“I’m comfortable with being uncomfortable. I got into my rhythm eventually, but I need to do that quicker. Did I play up to par? No. But we won, and that’s what matters.”

Head Coach Kevin Stefanski:
“Pleased with Shedeur, pleased with the offense. Not perfect, plenty to work on, but the guys made plays and Shedeur operated well.”

Context & What’s Next

  • Draft Slide & Opportunity: Once projected as a potential first-round pick, Sanders fell to the fifth round (144th overall) but capitalized on injuries to Dillon Gabriel (third-round pick) and Kenny Pickett, as well as Joe Flacco being rested.
  • QB Battle Implications: Stefanski declined to say if Sanders’ performance would alter the depth chart, emphasizing ongoing evaluation.
  • Upcoming Joint Practices: The Browns will work with the Philadelphia Eagles next week, where Gabriel and Pickett are expected to return to full participation.

Looking Ahead

While preseason performances should be taken with caution, Sanders’ debut suggests he could push for a larger role sooner than expected. His ability to extend plays and make accurate throws under duress—traits that defined his college career—were on full display. If he continues to progress, the Browns may have found a late-round steal in the 2025 draft.

The Browns’ next preseason game is August 17 against the Detroit Lions, where Sanders could see more action depending on the health of Cleveland’s other quarterbacks.