Shedeur Sanders Suffers Oblique Injury in Practice: What It Means for the Cleveland Browns

 Berea, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns’ preseason preparations were dealt a major blow today as rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders suffered an oblique injury during practice. The highly anticipated newcomer—drafted to be the future face of the franchise—went down during a routine drill, and initial reports indicate he could miss several weeks of training camp and possibly the start of the regular season.

According to team sources, Sanders appeared to grimace and grab his right side after a throw late in practice. He was immediately evaluated by trainers and later escorted off the field. While the injury is not believed to be season-ending, the Browns are proceeding cautiously.

“It’s an oblique strain, and we’re going to monitor it day by day,” head coach Kevin Stefanski said in a post-practice press conference. “These things can linger if not treated properly, so we’re going to be smart about how we bring him back.”

The Timing Couldn’t Be Worse

The injury comes at a pivotal moment for Sanders, who has been competing for the Browns’ starting quarterback role. After a standout college career at Colorado under the guidance of his father, Deion Sanders, Shedeur entered the NFL with high expectations and a strong fan following.

With Cleveland looking to reset its offense after inconsistent quarterback play in recent seasons, Sanders was widely viewed as the most exciting talent the team has had at the position in years. He had shown flashes of brilliance in early training camp sessions, impressing coaches with his poise, arm strength, and football IQ.

Now, with his momentum temporarily halted, questions arise about whether Sanders will be ready for Week 1—and what the Browns’ contingency plan looks like.

What This Means for the Browns’ Depth Chart

If Sanders is sidelined for an extended period, the Browns may be forced to lean on veteran backup Jacoby Brissett, who was re-signed in the offseason precisely for situations like this. Brissett is experienced, steady, and well-respected in the locker room, but he doesn’t offer the dynamic upside that Sanders brings.

The injury may also open the door for third-string QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson to get more preseason reps, potentially shaking up the depth chart even further.

General manager Andrew Berry has yet to comment publicly, but sources indicate the Browns are not currently looking to bring in outside help. That could change if Sanders’ recovery timeline stretches into the regular season.

Looking Ahead

While the Browns remain optimistic about Sanders’ recovery, this setback is a reminder of how fragile quarterback development can be—especially for a rookie expected to lead a franchise.

“We’re going to support Shedeur every step of the way,” Stefanski said. “He’s been everything we hoped for and more. This is just a bump in the road.”

Fans will now have to wait and hope that the injury doesn’t derail what was shaping up to be a breakout debut season for one of football’s most talked-about young stars.