Browns Launch Wide-Open QB Competition as Shedeur Sanders Tries to Climb Depth Chart

The Cleveland Browns have kicked off one of the NFL’s most intriguing quarterback competitions, with offensive coordinator Tommy Rees confirming that all four quarterbacks, including rookie Shedeur Sanders, have a shot at winning the starting job.

Rees emphasized the early stage of the evaluation process and the fluid nature of reps during minicamp. With no clear frontrunner, both minicamp and training camp performances will be pivotal in determining not only the starter but the full depth chart.

Although Rees kept his comments broad, much of the media and fan speculation continues to zero in on Shedeur Sanders. Despite having yet to take a snap in mandatory minicamp, the buzz around him is substantial. Every development in the Browns’ quarterback room is viewed through the lens of how it affects Sanders’ standing. With head coach Kevin Stefanski yet to finalize the quarterback hierarchy, this scrutiny will persist throughout the preseason.

Minicamp Performances and Playbook Mastery Will Determine Sanders’ Early Quarterback Standing

This week’s minicamp begins the process of separating contenders from pretenders. As the Browns start installing parts of their offensive system, on-field performance will start to shape internal opinions. Observers will focus on how each quarterback handles reps, especially those involving the first-team offense. These early insights may offer clues into who’s emerging as a legitimate option under center.

For Sanders to realistically push for the starting role, mastering the Browns’ offensive scheme and terminology is paramount. While physically capable, Sanders faces a mental learning curve, particularly because Colorado’s offense under Pat Shurmur didn’t fully mirror an NFL system. The verbiage and complexity of Stefanski’s scheme demand a steep adjustment, and Sanders must show he can quickly grasp the playbook and effectively command the huddle.

Sanders Must Shine in Preseason and Overcome Veterans to Earn Starting Role

Sanders’ best chance to rise in the depth chart will come through strong preseason performances. Although likely to enter training camp as the fourth quarterback, he’ll have ample opportunities to show growth and command. Preseason reps are crucial, but just playing well may not suffice — he or fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel would need to be exceptional to unseat a veteran for the starting role.

Beyond on-field performance, the Browns’ organizational philosophy will heavily influence the quarterback decision. If the priority is winning immediately, the experience of Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett gives them an edge. However, if the focus shifts to developing young talent, Sanders or Gabriel might become more viable options. That shift could require simplifying the offense to ease a rookie’s transition, either from Week 1 or later in the season.

While a true quarterback competition is unfolding in Cleveland, Sanders faces the longest odds. His success will hinge on rapid mental development, standout preseason showings, and a willingness by the team to embrace some short-term growing pains for long-term gains. As camp progresses, all eyes will remain on whether he can climb the depth chart — or even steal the starting job come Week 1.