It’s finally Shedeur Sanders‘ time in Cleveland. After three straight starts, it seems that Sanders is firmly in the driver’s seat for the Browns. And he is taking to the role well. It’s a beautiful contrast to witness. Earlier in the season, Sanders was getting just as many questions as the team’s starting quarterback of the time, Dillon Gabriel.

With Gabriel’s absence due to concussion protocol, the immense questioning is now warranted. As I’ve mentioned, the son of “Primetime” Deion Sanders has been groomed for this moment. Although the Browns have posted a 1-2 record over the past three weeks, Sanders’ presence at the helm will provide a foundation for future success. But as we remain optimistic about this future, what can we expect from the rookie?

What to expect from Shedeur Sanders

For starters, we’ll continue to see a more poised Sanders from week to week. Remember, this is the same player who believed he was a first-round caliber talent. He certainly didn’t think that he should have been drafted in the fifth round. So, make no mistake, this young man has something to prove to the world.

Sanders already believes he is all the greatness we haven’t witnessed, but now he gets to harness that belief and exhibit it on the field. This opportunity to be a starting quarterback allows him to build a real rapport with his teammates on the field.

Improved team chemistry will most certainly be a thing. When Sanders was thrust into a starting opportunity a few weeks back, he didn’t have any time to really practice with the team’s starters. That’s no longer the case. As QB 1, he’s absolutely taking regular snaps with his starting teammates. With those reps, they’ll build trust and rhythm that’ll prove so vital during the finals weeks of this season. It’ll continue to build confidence with his teammates and the coaching staff that this team is now in promising hands.

Dance with who brought you

Lastly, we can expect to see football played with immense joy. That’s been a calling card for Sanders throughout, and that energy will be infectious on the field with his teammates. What we know for sure is that the former Colorado Buffalo keeps things in perspective in part due to his father’s tutelage. Even with that being the case, Sanders knows how playing freely and with joy aids in winning. As the Browns continue to reimagine their identity, joy and diligence will have to be tenets for them to become a winning organization.

What we’re getting to witness is what I hinted at some months back: how allowing Sanders to play can be the type of boost that could propel this organization. Although his start came by way of an injury, he stayed ready. And as they say, stay ready, so you won’t have to get prepared. For the remainder of this NFL season, we will witness what it’s like for Sanders to prepare each week and see just how well that preparation translates. Looking ahead to next season, a whole training camp under these new conditions will yield very positive outcomes for the 2026 NFL campaign.