Browns' Shedeur Sanders Throws 3 TDs, 1 INT in OTAs; Flacco, Pickett Lead QB Competition
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The Cleveland Browns are conducting an open quarterback competition during organized team activities (OTAs), featuring rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel alongside veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett. Sanders, selected 144th overall in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, has participated primarily in second-team drills and was not given first-team reps in 11-on-11 sessions. He completed 9 of 14 passes with three touchdowns and one interception in the most recent practice, and was the only Browns quarterback to throw an interception that day. Sanders also slipped and fell on his first play during team drills.
Sanders delivered a notable touchdown pass to Kaden Davis in a 7-on-7 red zone drill, though there was debate about whether Davis got both feet in bounds. Coaching staff, including offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, have commended Sanders for his work ethic and ability to absorb information, highlighting his progression in learning the system. Reports indicate there are supporters within the organization who believe Sanders could become the team's starting quarterback.
Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett are currently considered the front-runners for the starting role, while Dillon Gabriel, a third-round pick, and Sanders continue to compete. Deshaun Watson is also on the roster. Sanders previously finished eighth in Heisman Trophy voting and was named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year during his college career at Colorado.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski has emphasized that the quarterback rotation and evaluation process is ongoing, with all four quarterbacks receiving opportunities to develop. The Browns plan to further assess their quarterback depth chart during the upcoming mandatory minicamp.
Shedeur Sanders was the only one of Cleveland’s four quarterbacks not to take a snap with the first-team offense during 11-on-11 drills. He did take second-team snaps, but slipped and fell on the first play.
