Browns Head Coach Kevin Stefanski discusses his management of Shedeur Sanders following the team's preseason finale.
The Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation has seen some changes following a challenging preseason for rookie Shedeur Sanders and uncertainty surrounding the backup position.
Coach Kevin Stefanski decided to play Huntley in the last game, stating he had done a good job over the past few weeks. However, Huntley's tenure with the Browns came to an end on Sunday, as he was among the 21 players released.
Sanders, on the other hand, had a tough weekend in preseason games. The 144th pick in the draft faced issues with his footwork and repeated errors, which were evident in Saturday's preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams. Sanders completed 3 of 6 passes for 14 yards and led the team to three-and-out on four of five series.
Sanders' struggles were not limited to his passing game. In the same game, he took a 24-yard sack, an example of one of his errors. Despite this, Sanders stated that an oblique injury he suffered on August 13 during a joint workout with the Eagles was not a factor in his performance.
Sanders' position in the Browns' team is now uncertain. After a difficult preseason finale against the Rams, where he struggled with five sacks and only three completions before being replaced, Sanders is now competing for the backup role alongside Dillon Gabriel and Kenny Pickett.
Pickett, who has been dealing with a hamstring issue for the past four weeks, is likely to be available for the opener. Meanwhile, the backup spot remains undecided, with Stefanski yet to announce his decision.
The Browns are comfortable keeping four quarterbacks on their roster, according to General Manager Andrew Berry, who expressed confidence in the Browns' quarterback room, stating they like all the guys in it.
In a show of support, Joe Flacco, the starting quarterback for the Browns, empathized with Sanders' rough game, stating that it's part of being a rookie. However, Coach Stefanski was criticized for not allowing Sanders to attempt a potential game-winning drive and for playing him in the second half with third- and fourth-string units.
Sanders' brother, Shilo, also faced challenges this week. Shilo was ejected in Tampa Bay's game against Buffalo and was reportedly waived on Sunday.
In a surprising turn of events, Huntley came in with 2:03 remaining and led a game-winning drive, culminating in Andre Szmyt's 37-yard field goal as time expired in a 19-17 victory over the Rams. Huntley played in all three preseason games for the Browns before his release.
As the Browns gear up for the regular season, the quarterback situation remains a topic of interest. Sanders, Pickett, and Gabriel will continue to compete for the backup spot, while Flacco holds down the starting position. The Browns will hope to iron out the kinks and enter the season with a strong and cohesive quarterback unit.
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