
Shedeur Sanders is set to make his first NFL start for the Cleveland Browns after stepping in as a substitute in Week 11 against the Baltimore Ravens when starter Dillon Gabriel suffered a concussion. In relief, Sanders completed 4 of 16 passes for 47 yards, threw one interception and was sacked twice, struggling to move the offense effectively.
The appearance gave coaches and fans their first look at Sanders in live NFL action and offered a glimpse of the potential he demonstrated during his college career with the Colorado Buffaloes. A highly decorated player in 2024, Sanders earned Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year honors, but was drafted in the fifth round.
Sanders began the season last on Cleveland’s quarterback depth chart, but Gabriel’s injury opens the door for him to prove he can handle a starting role and lead an offense desperate for momentum
The Browns enter Week 12 at 2‑8, sitting last in the AFC North, making their matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders a critical opportunity to gain traction. Amid this challenging stretch, the team made a roster adjustment Thursday: “We've signed WR Kaden Davis to the practice squad and placed LB Cameron McGrone (Achilles) on practice squad/injured,” the Browns announced.
We've signed WR Kaden Davis to the practice squad and placed LB Cameron McGrone (Achilles) on practice squad/injured
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) November 20, 2025
» https://t.co/i1oy5Ta8lW pic.twitter.com/veSDY8YX8w
Davis, who has NFL experience in limited games and is known for special teams contributions, provides Sanders with a familiar target. According to Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot, Sanders is comfortable with Davis, and is expected to be elevated for the Raiders game.
All eyes will be on Sanders as he takes over the offense. After seeing action in relief, he has the chance to make a statement and prove his ability to lead the offense. The Raiders (2-8) are a struggling opponent, and Cleveland hopes Sanders can exploit their weaknesses.
Kickoff is set for Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET with the game airing on CBS, giving Sanders and the Browns an important stage to turn a difficult season into a potential statement.
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