NFL: Shedeur Sanders Sends Strong Message Before First Browns Start Amid Dillon Gabriel Injury

Amid starter Dillon Gabriel entering concussion protocol, the Cleveland Browns called upon rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders for his first NFL start. The moment arrived unexpectedly, but Sanders made his feelings clear.

“I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to get out there, that’s all you can ask for,” he said. “Honestly, a chance to get out there, get your feet wet, to experience how it feels to even be out there with the team, the first group, everybody. So, I truly was excited.”

When Gabriel exited the game, Sanders entered under difficult circumstances — mid-game, with the offense already trying to adjust. Despite the challenge, Sanders embraced the moment.

“I know I’m made for it,” he added, reflecting the confidence and preparation he’s carried into the position.

Yet he also acknowledged the work ahead: “There’s a lot of things we need to look at during the week and go and just get comfortable with even throwing routes to … all those guys. That was my first ball to him all year.”

The Browns’ coaching staff appeared to believe in Sanders’ potential.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski noted, “We trust our guys … [Sanders is] no different. Playing a backup quarterback role … that’s tough to come in there but we trust him. I know there’s things that he’s going to want to do better.” Despite the trust, the immediate results were mixed — Sanders completed 4 of 16 passes for 47 yards with an interception in his debut.

For Sanders, the moment was less about the stat line and more about opportunity. With his first-team reps coming in high-stakes fashion, his comments make clear he knows the spotlight is on him — and he’s ready to step into it. Whether this performance serves as a launching pad or simply a stepping stone will depend on how quickly he settles with the team around him and builds consistency under center.