Sun Nov 23 21:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the Browns’ situation with rookie QB Shedeur Sanders, followed by a news article based on the provided information:
Summary:
Due to an injury to starting QB Dillon Gabriel, Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders will make his first career start against the Las Vegas Raiders. Despite limited practice reps, Sanders has been preparing through a program called “Hungry Dawgs Period,” created by head coach Kevin Stefanski, which provides extra reps and individual coaching. His previous in-game appearance was rough, but he wasn’t properly prepared and the team hopes for better results this time with a game plan tailored to his strengths. Regardless of the game’s outcome, the Browns won’t make a final judgment on Sanders’ long-term potential based on this one start, but his development is being closely watched, especially considering their future draft capital.
News Article:
Rookie QB Shedeur Sanders to Make First Career Start for Browns
Cleveland, OH – Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is set to make his first NFL start this Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders, stepping in for injured Dillon Gabriel (concussion). The fifth-round pick has been diligently preparing for this opportunity, despite limited regular practice reps.
Head Coach Kevin Stefanski has implemented a program called “Hungry Dawgs Period” to provide Sanders and other younger players with crucial extra practice reps focused on the weekly game plan. These sessions, coupled with private film review meetings with Stefanski, have been instrumental in accelerating Sanders’ development.
“These extra snaps are aimed at accelerating their trajectory” stated a source from within.
Sanders saw brief action in Week 11 against the Baltimore Ravens, struggling in relief of Gabriel. However, sources say his preparation has been much improved this week, with a game plan designed to leverage his strengths, including his ability to throw deep.
While the Browns are eager to see Sanders perform, they are tempering expectations. Sources say that the team is not planning to make any long-term assessment of Sanders’ franchise quarterback potential based solely on this one game. His progress will be continuously evaluated as the Browns look to the future, armed with two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. Bailey Zappe was elevated from the practice squad this week to be Sanders’ backup.