Introduction
Shedeur Sanders, quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, has captured the eye of NFL fans with both impressive college feats and a turbulent preseason debut. This article explores his performance today, addresses whether he played, and analyzes his sack numbers, all while optimizing for search engines with strategic keywords and structured content.
1. Did Shedeur Sanders Play Today?
Yes, Shedeur Sanders did play today, during the Cleveland Browns’ preseason finale against the Los Angeles Rams on August 23, 2025.
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In that game, he entered as the third quarterback behind Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel.
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He logged three completions on six pass attempts for just 14 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions, but was sacked five times and had one fumble (which his team recovered)
2. Shedeur Sanders’ Stats Today
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Completions | 3 of 6 pass attempts |
| Passing Yards | 14 total yards |
| Touchdowns | 0 |
| Interceptions | 0 |
| Sacks Allowed | 5 |
| Fumbles | 1 (recovered by Browns) |
| Net Passing Yards | –27 yards (after sacks) |
Breakdown:
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He completed 3 of 6 passes, gaining a total of 14 yards.
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He was sacked five times, including a singular 24-yard loss by Rams’ linebacker Brennan Jackson.
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Net of sacks, he recorded –27 passing yards
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He also fumbled once, though the Browns retained possession.
3. Analysis of the Performance
3.1 Struggles Under Pressure
The preseason finale highlighted Shedeur’s struggles when facing a stout pass rush. The five sacks over a limited number of dropbacks greatly impacted his effectiveness and output.
3.2 Depth-Chart Implications
Entering the game with no hopes of securing the starting role—already locked by veteran Joe Flacco—his performance puts him behind Dillon Gabriel in backup conversations.
3.3 Roster Outlook
Despite this rocky outing, the Browns are expected to keep all four quarterbacks: Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel. Sanders remains confident in his spot, stretching for the final roster cut AS USANew York Post.
3.4 Fan and Media Reactions
Reddit users didn’t hold back:
“Yep, 3/6 throwing, 14 yards, 5 sacks, 1 fumble (but the Browns recovered it)”
— r/nfl user
“41 yards in sacks for a net passing total of -27 yards.”
— r/nfl user
Their candid remarks reflect the consensus of disappointment.
4. Shedeur Sanders’ College Legacy
Though his NFL preseason debut was far from stellar, Shedeur’s college career tells a different story—one of high achievement and playmaking.
4.1 Colorado Buffaloes (2023–2024)
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In 2023, he recorded 3,230 passing yards and 31 touchdowns, with just 3 interceptions.
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He set school records for passing yards, completion percentage (69.3%), touchdown-to-interception ratio, and interception rate.
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In 2024, he continued his dominance, leading the Buffaloes and setting the school record with 41 touchdowns responsible for in a single season Wikipedia.
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He displayed exceptional efficiency in pressure situations like third downs and the red zone.
4.2 Jackson State (2021–2022)
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As the face of Jackson State, he delivered standout performances with games like 425 passing yards and 4 touchdowns against Mississippi Valley State, and 332 yards, 3 touchdowns versus Alabama State.
4.3 NFL Draft Prospect
Before the draft, scouting reports praised his football IQ, composure, and accuracy, while cautioning about his size, arm strength, and propensity to take too many sacks.
Next Steps
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College Career Deep Dive
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Include season-by-season statlines, leadership awards (Johnny Unitas Golden Arm, Deacon Jones Trophy).
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Draft Story
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Provide context from pre-draft evaluations and reactions to his fifth-round selection.
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Preseason Recap
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Chronicle all three preseason appearances: strong debut vs Panthers (138 yards, 2 TDs), injury absence, and today’s challenging finale.
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Interviews & Quotes
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Insert direct remarks from Shedeur, teammates, coaches, or analysts. Example: he responded with just one word when asked about his job security.
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Comparative Analysis
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Compare his transition to other QBs drafted in similar rounds—look at sack rates, performance under pressure.
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Outlook for Season
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Effect of this performance on final roster placement; future opportunities in practice squads or active roster.
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Conclusion
Today, Shedeur Sanders played in the Browns’ final preseason game—completing 3 of 6 passes for 14 yards, enduring 5 sacks, and posting –27 net passing yards. While the performance was underwhelming, it’s only his NFL beginning. His illustrious college career—marked by record-setting performances—still casts a long shadow. The path ahead remains uncertain, but the potential is palpable.
