The Cleveland Browns are facing an unexpected challenge in their highly anticipated quarterback competition as rookie Shedeur Sanders is currently sidelined with an arm injury, occurring at a critical juncture in NFL training camp.
Sanders, a promising fifth-round pick, finds himself at the fourth spot on the Browns’ depth chart as August progresses. For a player keen on making his mark and securing a significant role, every single practice rep is invaluable, making his current absence particularly problematic for his development and aspirations.
During recent team drills, veteran Joe Flacco and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel were the only quarterbacks taking snaps. While Kenny Pickett also missed the session due to a hamstring injury, Sanders’ exclusion due to arm soreness raises concerns about his ability to gain crucial experience and showcase his capabilities.
Reports from prominent NFL reporters further underscore the competitive landscape. As noted by Mary Kay Cabot on X, “Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel took all the team reps today with Kenny Pickett (hamstring) and Shedeur Sanders (arm soreness) both sitting them out.” Additionally, Albert Breer’s commentary highlighted that Dillon Gabriel has been ahead of Sanders since their arrival in Cleveland, with Sanders needing to cover significant ground.
This missed practice time due to arm soreness poses a substantial hurdle for Sanders. To effectively challenge for the starting Browns quarterback position, or even a higher spot on the depth chart, playing through minor ailments and maximizing every opportunity is paramount, a luxury his current condition does not afford him.
The race for the Browns QB1 job began as a four-way contest entering training camp, featuring both rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders as long-shot contenders, alongside the more established Kenny Pickett and veteran Joe Flacco.
However, the dynamic of this intense competition has dramatically shifted following Pickett’s recent hamstring injury. Zac Jackson of The Athletic has indicated that Joe Flacco is now considered the “strong favorite” to secure the starting role, largely due to his consistent performance during practice while Pickett remains limited.
Flacco’s resurgence in the previous season, culminating in an NFL Comeback Player of the Year award and leading the Cleveland Browns to the playoffs, bolsters his case. His established familiarity with the team and head coach Kevin Stefanski positions him as the natural frontrunner for the Week 1 start against the Cincinnati Bengals, even if Pickett were fully healthy.
The remaining weeks of training camp will undoubtedly continue to shape the final Browns depth chart, with significant decisions still pending for Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and particularly Shedeur Sanders, as they navigate their respective paths in Cleveland.
