Sanders, the second quarterback chosen by the Browns this 12 months after third-round choose Dillon Gabriel, had entered camp behind veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett on the depth chart. However, hamstring accidents to each Gabriel and Pickett have opened the door for the 22-year-old to take the sector in Charlotte.

The staff added former Pro Bowl quarterback Tyler Huntley this week, additional deepening the competitors. Flacco, 40, has acquired the majority of first-team reps however is unlikely to play prolonged preseason minutes as Cleveland manages his workload.

Shedeur Sanders arrives with appreciable consideration, having performed below his father, Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, throughout standout school seasons at Jackson State and Colorado. Known for his calm pocket presence and exact passing, Sanders has drawn reward regardless of receiving restricted first-team follow reps to date.

The Browns are nonetheless trying to find stability below heart, with Deshaun Watson sidelined till at the least the common season as he recovers from shoulder surgical procedure. Head coach Kevin Stefanski and his workers are utilizing the preseason to guage potential choices for a short-term starter—and maybe a long-term answer.

Friday’s matchup in Charlotte marks the primary of two joint practices between the Browns and Panthers. It additionally provides Sanders a main alternative to show he can deal with NFL defenses in dwell motion.

His sudden ascent might immediate Cleveland to reassess his position past that of a developmental backup. For now, he’ll take heart stage in one of many Browns’ most carefully watched preseason openers in latest reminiscence.