Browns Select Shedeur Sanders as Backup Quarterback After Joe Flacco Trade

The Cleveland Browns have made a significant change to their quarterback lineup, naming Shedeur Sanders as the backup quarterback for their upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed this decision on Friday, following the recent trade of veteran QB Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals.

This trade clears the path for Sanders to join the active roster for the first time in his professional career. Previously, he served as the emergency third-string quarterback during the Browns’ initial five games of the season.

Flacco’s Performance Falls Short

Joe Flacco’s time with the Browns was marked by struggle. During his four starts, the team managed only one win and three losses, and Flacco completed just over 58 percent of his passes, racking up 815 yards along with two touchdowns and six interceptions. His most recent appearance was as a backup during a loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 5.

Due to his lackluster performance, the Browns decided to move in a new direction, benching Flacco in favor of Dillon Gabriel, who had been more effective in practice.

Speculation Surrounds Backup Choice

As expectations mounted for the Browns to announce a backup quarterback, Stefanski refrained from confirming Sanders’ role earlier in the week. This left fans speculating whether Bailey Zappe, a practice squad quarterback who started in the team’s season finale in 2024, could be promoted instead.

Sanders’ Enthusiasm for New Role

In a recent interview, Sanders expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to back up Gabriel. He conveyed a positive mindset, stating his excitement about entering a new phase of his career.

“I’m in a great mental space overall,” Sanders shared. “You tend to get a little bit more excited when you see a light at the end of the tunnel, for sure. Whatever my role is here, I’m thankful. I’m happy just to do that.”

Gabriel’s Starting Debut

Dillon Gabriel, who was thrust into the starting role following Flacco’s trade, made his debut in the team’s recent game against the Minnesota Vikings. Despite the team’s 21-17 loss, Gabriel managed to complete 57.6 percent of his passes, totaling 190 yards and throwing for two touchdowns.

Upcoming Challenge Against the Steelers

Looking ahead, the Browns, currently holding a 1-4 record, face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. The Steelers boast a 3-1 record, making this matchup critical for the Browns as they aim to turn their season around.

Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET, and all eyes will be on Sanders and Gabriel as they approach their new roles within the team dynamic.

Team Dynamics and Future Prospects

The changes within the Browns’ quarterback roster underscore the team’s determination to revitalize their offensive strategy. With Sanders now positioned as the backup and Gabriel taking the helm, the organization demonstrates a commitment to evaluating young talent. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these shifts impact the team’s performance and if they can secure more victories moving forward.

Overall, the Cleveland Browns are entering a pivotal phase in their season. The introduction of Shedeur Sanders as a backup quarterback carries the potential for not just immediate changes, but also future implications for the franchise. If Gabriel continues to improve while having Sanders available for support, the team might just find a way to regain momentum this season.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.