Shedeur Sanders Injury Update — Browns Rookie Active vs. Jets, NFL Debut Could Be Imminent

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders is officially active for Week 10 against the New York Jets, marking his return from a back injury sustained during the team’s October 26 loss to the Patriots. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Friday that Sanders will serve as the backup quarterback, signaling a full recovery and renewed speculation about his potential NFL debut. The move follows Cleveland’s trade of veteran Joe Flacco to the Bengals, elevating Sanders to the No. 2 spot behind fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel.

Team Status and Player Background

Sanders, selected 144th overall in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, has yet to appear in a regular-season game. His preseason debut included 138 passing yards and two touchdowns, showcasing poise and accuracy.

The former Colorado Buffaloes standout earned the 2024 Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year award under the coaching of his father, Deion Sanders. His final college season featured 4,134 passing yards, a 74% completion rate, and 37 touchdowns, including 15 to Travis Hunter, the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner.

Coach Commentary and Analyst Insight

Stefanski told reporters, “Shedeur is fully cleared and ready to go. He’ll back up Dillon this week, and we’ll monitor everything moving forward.”

CBS Sports noted, “Sanders’ activation is a significant development for a Browns offense that has struggled to find rhythm.” Bleacher Report added, “With Flacco gone and Gabriel underperforming, Sanders’ path to playing time is wide open.”

Impact on Browns Offense and Depth Chart

Gabriel has started four games, completing fewer than 60% of his passes and averaging just 4.9 yards per attempt. Cleveland has scored under 20 points in three of those contests, going 1–3 during that stretch.

Sanders’ return gives the Browns a dynamic option with proven college production. His presence could prompt a quarterback change if Gabriel continues to struggle, especially with Cleveland sitting last in the AFC North.

What’s Next for Sanders and the Browns

The Browns face the Jets on Sunday, and while Sanders is not expected to start, his activation suggests he could see action if Gabriel falters. With playoff hopes fading, Cleveland may use the remainder of the season to evaluate Sanders’ long-term potential.

Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Sanders gets his NFL moment — a debut that could reshape the Browns’ quarterback outlook heading into 2026.