From Hype to Highlights: Sanders Shines for Browns
August 9, 2025
The most anticipated preseason game may have taken place on Friday night between the Browns (of all teams) and Panthers. Shedeur Sanders, of course, was given the starting nod and would make his debut after famously sliding to the 5th round of the draft last Spring. While that certainly wasn’t the only exciting story line to follow, it was one that everyone seemed to be watching. How did it go?
It started a little rough, as you’d expect from a rookie in his first live NFL game action, resulting in a three and out on their first possession. The second possession started slow as well but Sanders was able to hit his running back Trayveon Williams for 15 yards to pick up their first 1st down. A few players later, Sanders was able to show a little bit of his playmaking ability and get out of the pocket and run for another 1st down. The drive would ultimately stall after a 4th and 1 conversion attempt would go horribly wrong resulting in Sanders nearly losing 20 yards on the play.
Cleveland was then gifted a miracle after they were forced to punt yet again after their third possession; Carolina return man Trevor Etienne muffed the catch, fumbling, and turning ball control back to the Browns on the Panther 10 yard line. It only took two plays for Sanders to find his receiver in the endzone for his first (unofficial) touchdown pass of the evening. From there, more positive plays were made than not and he’d go on to finish his night 14/23 for 138 yards and 2 touchdowns.
It was certainly a debut that lived up to the preseason hype. Much was made of his arrival to the facility as he arrived wearing his famous “legendary” chain followed by some hype men with music blasting. With that kind of entrance, it’s almost like he gave himself no choice but to follow through with a great night.
Despite what you’re reading here and perhaps in other media outlets, it wasn’t perfect. There were overthrows, underthrows, and some reads that could have been better. However, I’m sure we’ve all seen the memes of the Cleveland Browns never ending quarterback list and how they seem to be starting three or four different signal callers per year, but this will be an interesting story that will continue to develop over the next several weeks. Sanders has undoubtedly earned more reps, especially with a majority of the QB room sick with the injury bug. If his play can continue to improve, fix the little things, and take advantage of the opportunity. Dare I say that the Cleveland Browns may have fixed their quarterback issue? Only time will tell.
Keith, Author
Keith runs youth flag football leagues by day, and by night he hosts the podcast and writes articles with the confidence of a man who’s been rushing quarterbacks since dial-up. A longtime flag football DE and lifelong Falcons fan, he’s no stranger to heartbreak and enjoys watching the bears get slaughtered each week. Equal parts coach, critic, and chaos, Keith calls it like he sees it… even if it hurts.
The Goal Line Grind 