Kevin Stefanski and the Cleveland Browns coaching staff are taking a measured approach with rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders this offseason. They’re protecting the former Colorado standout from a brutal early-season schedule that could derail his development.
The Browns don’t want Sanders exposed during the most difficult games of their 2025 campaign.
“The excitement surrounding Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is palpable, but there’s a major reason the organization appears in no rush to throw him into the starting lineup – a murderous early-season schedule that would challenge even the most seasoned NFL veterans,” the Orange and Brown Talk Podcast crew wrote.
The podcast team from Cleveland.com includes Mary Kay Cabot, Dan Labbe, Scott Patsko, and Ashley Bastock.
Cleveland’s strategy isn’t going unnoticed around the league.
ESPN’s Harry Douglas predicts Sanders will make his NFL debut in Week 7 against the Miami Dolphins at home. That’s assuming Sanders performs well during training camp and preseason games.
“Game 7, that’s when the Cleveland Browns play the Miami Dolphins. And if Shedeur Sanders goes into training camp and he’s lights out, and he’s playing very well in preseason, there’s gonna have to be conversations that it might be earlier than that. Because what you don’t want to do, if you’re Kevin Stefanski, is have a guy show that he is the guy, but you not play him. Then you’re gonna have some controversy when it comes to your roster and older players who are trying to win right now,” Douglas said on ESPN’s “Get Up.”
The Browns are currently limiting Sanders’ practice opportunities. Stefanski has given him fewer plays than Dillon Gabriel, Kenny Pickett, and Joe Flacco.
Sanders hasn’t faced first-team defenders in practice yet.
Many quarterbacks have struggled under intense scrutiny during their rookie seasons. Sanders generates significant revenue and media attention for the franchise. The Browns are treating him as a valuable asset that needs protection until he’s ready for game action.
Stefanski’s patient approach could pay dividends long-term for both Sanders and the organization.
