Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders is officially stepping into the spotlight this Sunday, making his first start of the 2026 regular season, and he’s already dropping a hype video to get everyone fired up. The second-year signal-caller took to Instagram with a montage of his NFL career highlights, captioned simply: “Thank you GOD $².” It’s a big moment, especially with the Browns sitting at a surprising 5-3 record.
Watson Out, Sanders In: A Mid-Season QB Switch for the Playoff Contenders
This isn’t just any start; it’s a critical one for a Cleveland team that’s been one of the NFL’s most pleasant surprises so far. Sanders is getting the nod because starter Deshaun Watson is sidelined in concussion protocol. Watson had a strong showing, beating out Sanders for the starting job in the preseason after recovering from an Achilles injury that cost him the entire 2025 season. Head coach Todd Monken’s decision to go with Watson was controversial for some, but it absolutely paid dividends, with Watson completing 65.5 percent of his passes for 1,806 yards, seven touchdowns, and only three picks, plus another 217 yards and a score on the ground. Watson’s solid play is why Sanders has seen limited action this season.
From Rookie Starter to Backup, Now Back to the Hot Seat
Sanders is no stranger to the starting role, though. The former University of Colorado standout, drafted in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL draft, actually started seven games as a rookie, appearing in eight total. He went 3-4 in those starts, completing 56.6 percent of his passes for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, adding 169 rushing yards and a touchdown. That’s a decent foundation to build on, but this Sunday, he’s got to prove he can pick up right where the red-hot Watson left off.
The Browns are on the road against the New Orleans Saints this Sunday, and all eyes will be on Sanders. Can he keep this playoff-contending Cleveland team rolling, or will Watson’s absence throw a wrench into their unexpected season? This isn’t just a game; it’s a major test for a young QB and a team with high hopes.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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