Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is set to make his final start of the season against the Cincinnati Bengals on January 7, 2025. The matchup, taking place at 1 p.m. ET, represents an opportunity for Sanders to solidify his position within the Browns organization, which is grappling with ongoing questions about its quarterback future.
In a season marked by ups and downs, Sanders has been focused on demonstrating consistency as he prepares for this crucial game. “Just staying consistent, taking what they give me,” he stated earlier this week. He acknowledged the importance of overcoming adversity and regaining rhythm during games, a skill he aims to refine.
Since stepping in as the starter in Week 12, the Browns have recorded a 2-4 record with Sanders at the helm. The 2025 NFL season has been challenging for him, but he has shown flashes of potential, displaying the ability to make significant plays despite facing pressure. As the No. 144 overall pick in the draft, Sanders has faced his share of rookie challenges, including decision-making errors and inexperience under pressure.
Despite his promise, his performance statistics reveal room for improvement. In six starts, Sanders ranks 28th out of 29 qualifying quarterbacks in Total QBR with a score of 25.2. He has thrown seven touchdowns but also seven interceptions, the highest number of any quarterback this season. His average time to throw stands at 3.22 seconds, which trails only Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers. This extended time in the pocket has been partly due to the Browns’ struggling offensive line, with only Joel Bitonio remaining from the initial lineup.
The Browns’ recent victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers highlighted the dual nature of Sanders’ abilities. He completed 17 of 23 passes for 186 yards, securing one touchdown while also throwing two interceptions. His performance was a microcosm of his season: a strong start followed by critical mistakes. Sanders completed 10 of his first 13 passes for 156 yards, but a fateful hit during his 14th attempt led to a turnover, illustrating his ongoing battle with maintaining focus under pressure.
Addressing his performance, Sanders reflected on the necessity of taking calculated risks. “I got to be able to take the proper, necessary risk,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of decision-making in high-pressure situations. He acknowledged that improving his ability to respond when plays break down is a critical area for growth.
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has noted the progress Sanders has made week-to-week. “Continue to build on the things that he’s doing really well,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of improvement and team success. As the team prepares for the season finale, the emphasis remains on finishing strong, not only for Sanders but for the entire organization.
As uncertainty looms over the future of both Stefanski and Sanders, the implications of their performances extend beyond just this game. The Browns’ win against the Steelers shifted their draft position, potentially impacting their ability to secure a top-two pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL draft. With Deshaun Watson expected to return next season and Dillon Gabriel still in the mix, Sanders’ ability to demonstrate he can be the franchise quarterback becomes increasingly vital.
“I can’t think about what other people’s opinion or what they view me as,” Sanders stated when asked about his potential as a franchise player. He remains focused on earning respect from opponents while acknowledging that he cannot control external perceptions.
As the Browns prepare for their season finale, all eyes will be on Sanders, who is eager to leave a lasting impression as he steps onto the field for what could be a pivotal moment in his young career.
