Shedeur Sanders Embraces Growth Over Position Battle as Browns Develop Rookie Quarterbacks

As the Cleveland Browns’ mandatory minicamp unfolds, rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders has primarily practiced with the backup units. Meanwhile, more experienced quarterbacks—Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel—have seen action with the first-team offense. While this distribution of reps may suggest a hierarchy, Sanders remains unfazed and focused on personal development rather than depth chart placement.

Sanders Stays Ready as Browns Prioritize Rookie Development in Team Practice Reps

Addressing the media after the Browns’ first minicamp practice, Sanders emphasized the importance of mindset and preparedness. Rather than viewing limited reps negatively, he sees them as opportunities to grow and prove himself when called upon. “Nobody cares how many reps you got,” Sanders noted, highlighting that performance is what truly matters when it’s time to play.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski revealed that the heavy workload given to Sanders and Gabriel during team drills was intentional. The Browns are aiming to accelerate the growth of their young quarterbacks. Despite this focus, Gabriel has seen more time with the starters, consistent with the trend observed in earlier organized team activities (OTAs), while Sanders continues to run plays with the second string.

Stefanski and Sanders Focus on Growth, Not Depth Chart Competition or Pressure

Although an implicit competition exists among the quarterbacks, neither Stefanski nor Sanders has emphasized it publicly. Stefanski has praised the development of both rookies without placing added pressure on them. Similarly, Sanders remains focused on becoming a reliable teammate and refining his overall skill set rather than jockeying for position on the depth chart.

Sanders expressed a mature outlook regarding his role and future. Instead of rushing to compete for playing time, he values the learning process and guidance from veteran players. His approach is rooted in patience and daily improvement, with an understanding that long-term success will come through mastering the finer details and building a solid foundation during practice.