The Cleveland Browns gave their first preseason quarterback start to Shedeur Sanders. Immediately after that decision was made, their game against the Carolina Panthers became one of the most anticipated matchups of Week 1 preseason action. Sanders performed admirably during the game. He looked the part of an NFL quarterback.

Sanders, the 144th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, was the first Browns QB to take snaps this preseason. In Cleveland's opener against the Panthers, Sanders impressed with 138 yards and two passing touchdowns on 14-of-23 passing while Flacco, Kenny Pickett and Gabriel were sidelined for various reasons.