- NFL. Cleveland Browns and Shedeur Sanders mocked for worst strategy of the season
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The battle for QB1 has just begun in Cleveland. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski will have to choose between Shedeur Sanders, Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Kenny Pickett. Stefanski hasn't given any hints about who will be the starting quarterback, but he has revealed that there won't be an even split in QB reps. For whom? That remains unknown.
During the Browns' rookie minicamp, Stefanski said there was nothing to read into Dillon Gabriel taking reps before Shedeur Sanders. But now, he told ESPN Cleveland that he's instructed Gabriel, Sanders, Joe Flacco, and Kenny Pickett "don't pay attention to where you are in line." because the order is not going to be a static one from one practice to another." Still, there was no direct mention of Sanders. Is he already the favorite?
Afterward, Cleveland's head coach said the four quarterbacks shouldn't expect equal time in drills, as their reps will be based on what the team believes each player needs.
"The big thing for us is making sure we give the guys enough reps that they need. Making sure that they have enough"; he said. "They're learning the system, they're developing and we're evaluating them. We're finding out about them. It's not going to be everybody gets 25 percent of the reps, that's not how it's gonna be. We want to give everybody enough reps where we can learn more about them and prepare them to get ready to play."
Next step for Sanders and the Browns
Next Tuesday, the Browns will kick off Phase Three of their offseason workouts, which includes organized team activities (OTAs). These workouts will be crucial in setting the tone for the season. With four quarterbacks vying for the starting job, every rep will matter. It's also a key opportunity for new players to build chemistry with the rest of the roster and make a strong impression on the coaching staff.
As the competition heats up and the Browns inch closer to finalizing their depth chart, all eyes will be on Shedeur Sanders and how he handles the spotlight. Whether he rises to the challenge or another name emerges, the next few weeks could shape the future of the franchise.