Shedeur Sanders is set to make his first start of the season as the Cleveland Browns' quarterback, with Deshaun Watson currently in the concussion protocol. Browns coach Todd Monken announced that Sanders will start against the New Orleans Saints, regardless of whether Watson clears protocol.
Monken expressed confidence in Sanders, citing his performance in practice. "I liked his confidence and the way he operated. He looked very comfortable in terms of getting our guys in and out of the huddle and I thought he threw the ball extremely well," Monken said.
Sanders briefly entered the game last week for four plays when Watson left for a concussion evaluation, completing two passes for 2 yards. Watson, who has been experiencing concussion symptoms since Monday night, had returned to the game after being cleared by an unaffiliated neurotrauma consultant.
Sanders started the final seven games of his rookie season last year, posting a 3-4 record with 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions while completing 56.2% of his passes. The Browns had named Watson the starting quarterback after a competition throughout training camp.
Sanders believes his previous playing time was beneficial. "It was valuable, just tapping back into that memory bank, having those reps and everything," Sanders stated. "That’s why I’m thankful for this whole offseason and everything and just being out there with the guys each and every day, being able to still get some throws in with them. So I don’t think we lost a step."
The Browns' opponent, the New Orleans Saints, have struggled defensively, ranking 28th in total defense and 23rd against the pass. The Saints enter the game with a 2-5 record after their bye week, while the Browns, at 5-3, are aiming to avoid consecutive losses for the first time this season.