The Cleveland Browns are set to face the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, marking the final game of the season for rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. This matchup also represents a crucial opportunity for Sanders to solidify his standing within the Browns organization ahead of an offseason filled with uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position. With a current record of 4-12, Sanders is focused on demonstrating consistency in his performance.
“Just staying consistent, taking what they give me,” Sanders said during a press conference. “Whenever we get off rhythm, get back on rhythm, you know, get back on track. And I think that”s the next part of my game I”m trying to evolve, is whenever either we”re stagnant or some adversity comes, being able to get back on track.”
Since taking over as the starting quarterback in Week 12, Sanders has led the Browns to a 2-4 record. He has exhibited moments of promise, showcasing his ability to advance the ball downfield and evade potential sacks. However, he has also faced challenges typical of a rookie, including poor decision-making and holding onto the ball too long while seeking big plays.
In his six starts this season, Sanders ranks 28th out of 29 qualifying quarterbacks in Total QBR, with a score of 25.2. During this span, he has thrown seven touchdowns against seven interceptions, the highest interception rate in the league. His average time to throw of 3.22 seconds is second only to Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers, yet he has had to manage behind a depleted offensive line, with only Joel Bitonio as the sole Week 1 starter still active.
Sanders has faced pressure on 44.1% of his dropbacks, a figure that places him just behind Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers. The Browns” recent win against the Pittsburgh Steelers highlighted the duality of Sanders” performance. He completed 17 of 23 passes for 186 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. The early part of the game was particularly strong, as he completed 10 of his first 13 passes for 156 yards and a touchdown. However, he later made critical mistakes that contributed to the team”s struggles in the second half, where they scored only three points after halftime.
“I got to be able to take the proper, necessary risk,” Sanders noted. “And even whenever you go through your progressions and the checkdown isn”t there, then what? So that”s kind of where I feel like the strides have been made from getting to the reads, getting to the checkdown.”
Despite the ups and downs, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has observed steady improvement from Sanders each week. “Continue to build, continue to build on the things that he”s doing really well,” Stefanski commented. “There are things that you ask him to improve upon each week, and he”s diligent about those things.” He emphasized the importance of finishing the season strong as the Browns aim for a team victory.
As the future of both Stefanski and Sanders remains uncertain, the outcome of this game could have significant implications for the Browns” offseason plans. With Deshaun Watson expected to return from injury next season and third-round pick Dillon Gabriel still under contract, the competition for the starting quarterback role may intensify.
“I can”t think about what other people”s opinions or what they view me as,” Sanders remarked when asked about his potential as a franchise quarterback. “I know the teams that we go against, I know they definitely respect me in the passing game, for sure, but I can”t be accountable for somebody else”s decisions.”
