The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback depth is under pressure after rookie Shedeur Sanders sustained an oblique injury during a joint practice with the Philadelphia Eagles on Wednesday. Sanders was carted off the field following contact with Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. Head coach Kevin Stefanski later described Sanders’ injury status as uncertain, putting the Browns in a difficult position heading into the Eagles preseason game. In Sanders’ absence, Dillon Gabriel is expected to take the starting role, despite dealing with his own hamstring tightness.
While discussions about Gabriel’s ability to play continue, the situation has stirred frustration among fans and insiders. The Miz, a well-known Browns supporter and WWE star, expressed his dissatisfaction during a guest-host appearance on the Rich Eisen Show on Thursday. He called for increased transparency regarding the team’s quarterback situation and the availability of players.
“Like why can’t they just give us the information that we want, and that we want here? Because it’s just guessing all the time. Like, this is me just throwing stuff out here, and you can throw it right back,” The Miz said on Thursday’s episode of Rich Eisen show. [Timestamp – 2:00]
The Miz Commends Sanders’ Approach Amid Uncertainty
Despite the tension around the Browns’ quarterback woes, The Miz recognized Shedeur Sanders’ professionalism and dedication. Sanders has taken the opportunity to learn from rival quarterback Jalen Hurts, who publicly acknowledged their interaction after the practice. The WWE star praised Sanders for approaching the situation maturely and seeking valuable advice from an experienced player.
“It feels like Shedeur is asking the right questions to a Super Bowl MVP, a Super Bowl winning quarterback in Jalen Hurts. Now, no matter what you say about Shador Sanders, it seems to me like he’s doing all the right things,” he added.
Head Coach Stefanski Provides Latest on Sanders’ Injury
On Thursday morning, Kevin Stefanski offered an update regarding Sanders’ oblique injury. He explained that the severity of the injury is still being evaluated but indicated that Sanders is unlikely to participate in the upcoming game against the Eagles. Stefanski emphasized the importance of oblique muscles for quarterbacks, especially in throwing motions, and highlighted the need for caution.
“I think it’s just with throwers and pitchers and guys that torque and twist their body, you got to be really careful,” Stefanski said.
The coach also stated that the team will manage Sanders’ recovery carefully without rushing him back into full activity. With backup quarterbacks Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett both unavailable due to injuries, the Browns are expected to rely on either Dillon Gabriel or Tyler “Snoop” Huntley to start against Philadelphia.
Outlook for Browns’ Quarterback Situation
The injury to Shedeur Sanders highlights a fragile depth chart for the Browns just as the preseason intensifies. With key quarterbacks sidelined, the team faces a critical test in their quarterback rotations and needs clearer communication with fans and media. As the NFL preseason progresses, how the Browns navigate this challenge will be closely watched by supporters like The Miz and the wider football community. The coming days will reveal if Gabriel or Huntley can fill the gap effectively and how Sanders’ recovery proceeds under Stefanski’s cautious approach.
