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Sheader Sanders was listed as the Cleveland Browns' backup quarterback behind Dillon Gabriel after Joe Flacco was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals at the beginning of October.
The former Colorado standout began his rookie NFL season as the third quarterback on the Browns' depth chart. Gabriel threw two interceptions in the team's loss. New England Patriots at 8 weeks.
Despite losing three of their last four games and a 2-6 record entering Week 10, Browns football officials appear to have no intention of replacing starter Gabriel in favor of Sanders.
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Cleveland Browns defensive end Sheader Sanders throws the ball before an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins in Cleveland, Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025. (AP Photo/David Richard)
The decision to bench Sanders was met with horror by Cleveland ESPN radio host Tony Rizzo.
CLEVELAND RADIO HOST DESPITELY BEGGING BROWNS TO START WITH SHADER SANDERS: 'JUST PUT HIM OUT THERE'
“What happens behind the scenes? How can this guy, who was drafted late in the first round, not play for a shitty team?!” Rizzo said.
“They don't even give him representatives! It's on the coach, man. Stefanski will have to answer for this, and this could happen at the end of the year, which could lead to his dismissal. What's happening?”
Cleveland Browns defensive back Sheader Sanders (12) throws during the NFL football team's rookie minicamp in Berea, Ohio, Friday, May 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Sue Ogroki)
Rizzo then came up with the theory that How much is Sanders? liked it or didn't like it, and whether it affected his opportunities in Cleveland.
“It’s clear that someone doesn’t like him. Or… how come you’re not ready to play? He’s been here since April. It’s hard for me to believe that this kid isn’t ready to play,” the radio commentator lamented. “Why didn’t Sheader Sanders take the field? For the life of me I can’t understand what’s going on. Something is happening.”
Cleveland Browns defensive back Sheader Sanders (12) leaves the field after the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acresure Stadium on October 12, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Barry Rieger/Imagn Images)
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Sanders appeared in two preseason games. He was listed as a limited participant in practice Wednesday, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. The rookie quarterback continues to deal with a back injury.
Browns visit New York Jets on Sunday.
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