Shedeur Sanders Set to Play in Preseason Finale Against Rams

In a key matchup for the Cleveland Browns, rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is expected to take the field in the preseason finale against the Los Angeles Rams on March 15, 2024. Head Coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Sanders, who has been recovering from an oblique strain, will participate unless any last-minute setbacks arise. Additionally, undrafted rookie wide receiver Isaiah Bond, signed earlier this week, will also see action on Saturday after completing practice sessions.

Stefanski indicated that the Browns’ starters, including newly appointed starting quarterback Joe Flacco, will play approximately 20 to 25 snaps. Following Flacco, Dillon Gabriel is slated to serve as the backup, with Sanders entering the game third in line. Notably, Kenny Pickett has returned to 11-on-11 drills but will not participate in the game due to a lingering hamstring injury.

Sanders Returns to Practice

Sanders missed joint practices with the Philadelphia Eagles and did not play in last week’s preseason game due to his injury. He resumed team drills on Wednesday and continued to practice on Thursday. “Everything’s good,” he stated, referring to his recovery from the oblique strain.

In the lead-up to the game, Sanders addressed recent comments made by Gabriel during a CBS Sports interview. Gabriel’s remarks about “tuning out the noise” and referring to “entertainers” sparked speculation on social media, with many interpreting it as a jab at Sanders. Despite the buzz, Sanders downplayed the significance of the comments, clarifying that Gabriel later assured him that his statement was not aimed at him.

“If it’s not words or anything at this point, it can’t do anything to me,” Sanders remarked when asked about the controversy. He emphasized that he focuses on his game and does not let external opinions affect him. “I spoke with him. He told me on the plane… I’m not tripping, regardless of whatever it was,” he added.

Context of the Remarks

Gabriel, who was drafted two rounds after Sanders, has been less in the spotlight despite the competitive quarterback situation in Cleveland. His comments about “entertainers” were later clarified to be a reference to the media rather than a personal criticism of Sanders. “Honestly, I don’t even think about nothing,” Sanders said, showing his resilience in the face of speculation. “Do I feel like he did? I don’t know. And that’s not on me to sit here and be like, ‘Oh he did, he didn’t.'”

This dynamic between the quarterbacks highlights the competitive nature of the NFL, where both performance and public perception play crucial roles. As Sanders prepares for his debut, all eyes will be on him to see how he navigates this complex landscape.