Browns' Shedeur Sanders nears return, setting up potential Cleveland's QB drama

Cleveland’s offensive progress was short-lived. Just a week after breaking the 17-point barrier, the Browns reverted to familiar struggles, scoring only two touchdowns in their 32-13 defeat to New England.

Starting quarterback Dillon Gabriel again stuttered to generate rhythm, throwing for 156 yards with two interceptions. The most troubling part for Cleveland is that turnovers had been one of Gabriel’s few strengths before this game.

Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders was sidelined with a back injury, but the team’s Week 9 bye could allow him to recover fully. With the Browns sitting at 2-6 and fielding the league’s second-worst offense by total yards, the calls to see Sanders in action are growing louder.

Yet head coach Kevin Stefanski seems unwilling to consider a switch. When asked why Sanders hasn’t been given a chance, Stefanski replied,

“Obviously, my focus is where we are right now, Mary Kay. That’s not my focus.”

Star pass rusher Myles Garrett provided the lone bright spot, recording five sacks, including two red-zone stops that forced Patriots field goals. His first sack moved him past Reggie White for the most by any player (108.5) before age 30 since 1982.

More: Dan Patrick says Dillon Gabriel tops Browns’ Shedeur Sanders as media hype reaches NFL-starter levels

Stefanski stands firm despite mounting pressure

Even as fans clamor for change, Cleveland’s coaching staff plans to stay the course. Stefanski reiterated Monday that Gabriel will remain the starter following the team’s bye week and into the Week 10 matchup against the New York Jets. His reasoning appears rooted in maintaining continuity rather than experimentation.

That stance, however, hasn’t quieted public frustration. Gabriel’s continued inconsistency has many questioning whether he still gives the Browns their best chance to win. Some argue that playing Sanders would at least provide insight into what the rookie can offer.

Stefanski, however, remains committed to his current approach, focusing on immediate results instead of developmental reps for the young quarterback.

“My focus is where we are right now,” he repeated when pressed.

The Browns’ offense has yet to find its footing, and the next few weeks could determine whether Stefanski’s loyalty to Gabriel pays off—or whether mounting pressure forces his hand.

For now, Sanders remains waiting on the sideline, healthy or not, as the team searches for a spark.

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