Shedeur Sanders has long way to go after Browns' first depth chart release

Sanders enters the preseason behind starter Joe Flacco, offseason trade acquisition Kenny Pickett and fellow 2025 NFL Draft selection Dillon Gabriel.

The Browns selected Gabriel in the third round (No. 94 overall) and Sanders 50 picks later at No. 144 overall. 

Per Cleveland.com Browns reporter Mary Kay Cabot, who was recently honored at the Pro Football Hall of Fame with the 2025 Bill Nunn Memorial Award, Gabriel recently suffered a hamstring injury, limiting him in practice.

Pickett is also dealing with a hamstring issue but was present during 7-on-7 drills for the first time since the team's fourth training camp practice on Monday.

Sanders was pulled from Saturday's practice after experiencing soreness in his throwing arm, keeping him from a possible move up the depth chart.

Following the release of the team's depth chart, ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that the Browns had signed veteran journeyman quarterback Tyler Huntley, which could be a troubling sign in regards to Sanders' (and Pickett and Gabriel's) availability when the Browns kick-off their preseason action.

The Browns appear headed to enter the season with Flacco, 40, as its starting quarterback. While he might give Cleveland the best chance of winning, it isn't a realistic playoff contender, regardless of who starts. 

At some point this season, it might be more prudent for the Browns to turn to one of their rookies, possibly Sanders, to see if either can be the quarterback of the future. But based on the team's depth chart, that won't be anytime soon.