Shedeur Sanders made a memorable first NFL start Sunday, guiding the Cleveland Browns to a 24-10 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. As he left the field, Sanders celebrated with his signature watch gesture and a heart-shaped hand sign, sharing a postgame embrace with his father, Hall of Famer Deion Sanders.
Sanders’ debut was notable not only for his personal performance, completing 11 of 20 passes for 209 yards with one touchdown, but also for ending several Browns’ streaks. He became the first Browns quarterback to win his first NFL start since 1995 and snapped a 17-game losing streak for debuting QBs, as well as a 13-game road losing streak, the second longest in franchise history.
Stefanski Weighs Quarterback Options While Sanders Gains Confidence In First NFL Start
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski did not confirm a starting quarterback for the following week, leaving the door open for Dillon Gabriel, who was recovering from a concussion. Stefanski emphasized taking time to make the best decision for the team while expressing pride in Sanders’ performance.
Shedeur Sanders (NFL)Sanders had made his NFL debut just a week earlier in relief of Gabriel against the Baltimore Ravens, where he struggled with limited practice reps. With a full week of preparation as the starter, Sanders showed greater poise, taking only one sack compared to two in his debut, and exhibited confidence despite limited preseason experience.
Sanders’ Big Plays And Determination Highlight Potential As Browns’ Rising Quarterback Star
Sanders demonstrated his playmaking ability early, connecting on a 52-yard pass to rookie Isaiah Bond, the Browns’ longest pass play of the season at the time. Later, he threw his first NFL touchdown on a screen pass that rookie Dylan Sampson took 66 yards for a score. Defensive end Myles Garrett praised Sanders’ talent and potential to grow as a quarterback.
Originally the Browns’ fourth quarterback, Sanders moved up the depth chart following roster moves and Gabriel’s injury. In interviews, Sanders expressed gratitude for the opportunity and determination to prove himself, embracing the responsibility of leading the Browns and showing fans his capabilities, while acknowledging the long path ahead for growth and development.
