The Cleveland Browns are evaluating their quarterback depth chart following the trade of veteran Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals. The move leaves an opening for the primary backup position behind rookie starter Dillon Gabriel, with rookie Shedeur Sanders and veteran Bailey Zappe as the main candidates. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has not yet publicly named a successor.
Sanders, who served as the team's emergency third quarterback for the first five games of the season, addressed the situation on Thursday. He stated his readiness to step into a larger role if called upon, emphasizing his confidence and the valuable experience gained during his time with the team.
Key Takeaways
- The Cleveland Browns have not decided on a primary backup quarterback after trading Joe Flacco.
- The two main candidates for the role are rookie Shedeur Sanders and veteran Bailey Zappe.
- Coach Kevin Stefanski has indicated that Zappe's experience could be a significant factor in the decision.
- Shedeur Sanders has publicly stated he feels prepared and confident to take on whatever role the team assigns him.
Stefanski Remains Noncommittal on Depth Chart
Following the trade that sent Joe Flacco to Cincinnati, where he is now the starter, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski has kept his plans for the quarterback room private. He acknowledged the team is considering its options for the number two spot behind Dillon Gabriel, who was recently named the starter.
The choice comes down to two distinct players: Shedeur Sanders, a highly-touted rookie, and Bailey Zappe, a four-year veteran with nine career starts. Zappe has been on the Browns' practice squad since late August, providing a more experienced option.
On Wednesday, Stefanski suggested that Zappe's professional experience gives him an advantage, especially given the team's long-term development plan for Sanders. However, he clarified that no final decision would be announced until later in the week ahead of their game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Positional Context
The backup quarterback role is critical for any NFL team, providing insurance in case of injury to the starter. The decision often balances a rookie's developmental potential against a veteran's immediate readiness and experience in game situations.
Sanders Expresses Confidence and Readiness
Speaking to reporters, Shedeur Sanders conveyed a message of self-assurance and preparedness. Despite the uncertainty of his role, he affirmed his belief in his abilities and his trust in the coaching staff's decision-making process.
"I’m overly confident in myself," Sanders said. "I know when I first got here, you know (I was) ready to play. But it’s up to the coaches. Whatever decision they make, then I’m fine with it."
He explained that the mindset within the quarterback room has always been about preparation, regardless of individual roles. "Each and every day, even when Joe was the starter, (the goal) was to go out there and prepare and be ready and know that you could get out there at any point in time," he added.
Learning from a Veteran Presence
Sanders spoke positively about his five months working alongside Joe Flacco, an 18-year NFL veteran. He described the experience as a valuable learning opportunity and acknowledged the wisdom Flacco shared.
"Being around Joe, we’re supposed to learn (from him) and eventually we’ve got to branch off," Sanders noted. He drew a parallel to his college career, stating, "It’s kind of like me in college — you know, being with my dad and everything every step of the way, and now it’s time for me to find my own route."
The rookie expressed gratitude for the guidance he received, recognizing the transient nature of NFL rosters. "You value each and every day and who’s around you. You don’t know who’s gonna be here and who’s not, including yourself."
A New Chapter
Joe Flacco, who started four games for the Browns this season, was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals following an injury to their starting quarterback. The trade shifted the dynamic in Cleveland's quarterback room, accelerating the need to define the backup role.
Navigating External Commentary
Sanders also indirectly addressed previous criticism from ESPN analyst and former NFL head coach Rex Ryan, who had suggested the rookie was talking too much. This followed a period where Sanders had previously told ESPN Cleveland he felt capable of playing better than many quarterbacks in the league.
When asked about Ryan's comments on Thursday, Sanders maintained a positive outlook. "No negativity," he responded, indicating his focus is on his responsibilities with the team. He mentioned that he was excited for Gabriel upon his promotion to starter and is concentrating on his own development.
"I’m in a great mental space overall," Sanders shared. "I would say you tend to get a bit more excited when you see a light at the end of the tunnel, for sure. My job at first was to prepare the defense, and I think I did a pretty good job. Whatever my role is, I’m thankful and I’m happy."
The Path Forward for Cleveland
As the Browns prepare for their upcoming game, the focus remains on starter Dillon Gabriel. During media viewing portions of practice this week, Gabriel was the only quarterback seen throwing to the active roster's wide receivers.
The team's final decision on the backup quarterback will likely be revealed closer to game day. The choice will signal the team's immediate priority: relying on Zappe's experience for short-term security or giving Sanders an opportunity to accelerate his development in a more prominent role.
For now, Sanders is focused on controlling what he can. "I feel like now I’m ready — not saying I wasn’t ready before, but now I’m ready for whenever my opportunity is," he concluded. "Everybody here’s living their dream, and I’m living mine also."