ESPN Radio host questions Browns’ decision to bench Shedeur Sanders
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Shedeur Sanders was listed as the Cleveland Browns’ backup quarterback behind Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel. Traded to Cincinnati Bengals At the beginning of October.
The former Colorado native began his rookie NFL season as the third quarterback on the Browns’ depth chart. Gabriel had two interceptions in a blowout loss to the New England Patriots in Week 8.
Despite losing three of their last four games and having a 2-6 record entering Week 10, the Browns’ football decision-makers appear to have no intention of replacing starter Gabriel with Sanders.
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Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders throws before the NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/David Richard)
The decision to keep Sanders on the bench was met with surprise from Cleveland-based ESPN Radio host Tony Rizzo.
CLEVELAND RADIO HOST WANTS BROWNS TO START SHEDEUR SANDERS: ‘GET HIM OUT THERE’
“What’s going on behind the scenes? How can this kid who was considered a first-round pick in the draft not play for a terrible team?!” said Rizzo.
“They’re not even giving him a replay! It’s the coach’s business, man. Stefanski will have to answer for this, and that could come at the end of the year, and it could even be in the form of firing him. What’s going on?”
Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) throws during the NFL football team’s rookie minicamp on Friday, May 9, 2025, in Berea, Ohio. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
Rizzo then came up with a theory about how well-liked Sanders is and whether that affects his opportunities in Cleveland.
“Obviously someone doesn’t like him. Or… how are you not ready to play? He’s been here since April. I find it hard to believe that kid isn’t ready to play,” the radio commentator lamented. “Why didn’t Shedeur Sanders come onto the field? I can’t for the life of me understand what’s going on. Something’s going on.”
Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) leaves the field after the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium on October 12, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Barry Reeger/Imagn Images)
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Sanders appeared in two preseason games. He was listed as a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. The rookie quarterback continues to rehab his back injury.
The Browns will visit the New York Jets on Sunday.
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