Key Points
- Shedeur Sanders will make his first NFL start for the Cleveland Browns against the Las Vegas Raiders.
- The rookie previously saw action in Week 11, completing 4 of 16 passes for 47 yards with one interception.
- Sanders faces a pivotal opportunity to lead Cleveland’s offense and help snap a three-game losing streak.
Shedeur Sanders is set to make his first NFL start Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders, capping a patient climb up the Cleveland Browns’ depth chart. The son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, he starred for the Jackson State Tigers before transferring to join the Colorado Buffaloes and was selected in the fifth round (144th overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Shedeur Sanders gradually worked behind veteran Joe Flacco and rookie Dillon Gabriel, earning his first regular-season snaps in Week 11 when Gabriel left with a concussion. In relief, Sanders completed 4 of 16 passes for 47 yards with one interception and two sacks in a 23‑16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. That brief showing set the stage for his first start, and expectations have risen significantly.
© Jeff Lange / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
With a full week to prepare, all eyes are on Sanders to see how he handles his first start. Cleveland, 2‑8, faces a 2‑8 Raiders team, with Sanders tasked with leading the offense in hopes of securing the franchise’s third win of the season.
Ahead of his highly anticipated start, Sanders and his family partnered with Passion For Ezra — a clothing line — on a one-time commemorative shirt celebrating the 12th game of the season.
The design features a bold QB1 on the front, layered over a repeating “12” pattern, the full season schedule and “SANDERS” across the back.
The move continues a trend of strong familial support, something Shedeur Sanders has referenced repeatedly. His father, Deion Sanders, recently acknowledged the challenges his son has faced in his rookie year while praising his preparation and determination (via USA Today).
Sunday’s game offers Sanders an opportunity to silence doubters, showcase his skills and validate the Browns’ trust in him as the starter in a late-season matchup.
The Browns travel to Allegiant Stadium, looking to snap a three-game skid. Kickoff is set for 4:05 p.m. ET, with live coverage on CBS and Paramount+.
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About the author
Ayomide Adeduyite
Trending News Writer, Athlon Sports