Kevin Stefanski Under Fire After Shedeur Sanders Benching Sparks Allegations of Sabotage

Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski is facing mounting public pressure after controversial handling of rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders during the team’s preseason finale, prompting accusations of intentional sabotage and raising serious questions about the coach’s future with the franchise.

Sanders, a highly touted prospect out of Colorado and son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, entered the preseason as one of the Browns’ most watched rookies. Despite a strong college career and high fan expectations, he found himself sliding to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, where the Browns selected him with pick No. 144. Many believed Sanders had a chance to prove himself early in preseason action, especially given Deshaun Watson’s ongoing recovery and the uncertainty surrounding Cleveland’s quarterback room.

However, during the Browns’ preseason finale on August 23, Sanders was unexpectedly benched with two minutes remaining in a close game, despite having led the offense throughout the second half. Instead, backup quarterback Tyler Huntley, who was later released, was brought in to finish the game—and led a game-winning drive. The decision drew immediate criticism.

Fans and analysts alike accused Stefanski of stripping Sanders of a critical development opportunity. Some, including former NFL stars Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson, even suggested that the move was part of a larger plan to undermine the rookie’s confidence. The situation quickly escalated, with headlines suggesting Stefanski was “finished” in the eyes of the locker room and the fanbase.

Online reactions were fierce. “He’ll go to extremes to get Shedeur hurt,” one fan wrote, citing the poor offensive line protection Sanders faced during the game. Others questioned why a rookie quarterback wouldn’t be allowed to finish a game designed to evaluate young talent. Critics called the coach “shady” and “untrustworthy,” adding fuel to rumors of internal tension between Stefanski and team ownership over the selection of Sanders.

In response, Stefanski broke his silence, firmly denying the allegations of sabotage. “I don’t make decisions based on narratives or headlines,” he said in a post-game press conference. “Every rep is part of the evaluation. We’re trying to put all our guys in the best position to learn and grow.”

Despite the coach’s statement, the controversy has not died down. With veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett listed above Sanders on the depth chart, and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel also seeing significant reps, many are questioning whether the Browns have a long-term plan for Shedeur—or if he was drafted purely for depth.

NFL insiders report that Stefanski’s job isn’t in immediate danger, but this incident has clearly shaken confidence in his leadership. With the regular season approaching and a difficult schedule ahead, how Stefanski handles Sanders moving forward could determine not just the rookie’s trajectory—but his own.

For now, the Browns are quiet. But the drama surrounding Stefanski and Sanders is only just beginning.