An NFL backup quarterback is always just one snap away from getting into the game, which is why they have to be sharp whenever that happens. The Cleveland Browns found that out very early against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, with Shedeur Sanders replacing Deshaun Watson for the second time this season.
Just three snaps into the game, Watson took a hard hit on an incomplete pass and left to be evaluated for a concussion. Sanders came in and threw an incomplete pass, which was negated by an offensive penalty.
After Sanders completed a pass for no gain, upheld by a declined offensive penalty, and a 1-yard run by Quinshon Judkins, the QB completed another short pass. But tight end Harold Fannin Jr. lost a fumble, and Sanders’ day was done, as Watson was cleared to return for the next series.
After watching those four uninspiring plays, insider Tony Grossi is questioning Sanders’ readiness as a backup, saying he did not look ready to go when called on.
“He didn’t look prepared. When we talk about who has the better skills to be a backup quarterback, you gotta be ready to step in there and not just throw the ball out of bounds,” Grossi said.
"He didn't look prepared… when we talk about who has the better skills to be a backup QB, you gotta be ready to step in there and not just throw the ball out of bounds," – @TonyGrossi on Shedeur Sanders getting into the game. pic.twitter.com/vSTPyG6fTY
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) November 2, 2026
It may be unfair to judge Sanders on a box score of two completions on two attempts for 2 yards in what became an ugly 27-6 loss. But Sanders also could have given Cleveland a spark, and he was unable to do so.
The Browns are in the unusual position of carrying four quarterbacks on their 53-man roster, with Dillon Gabriel and rookie Taylen Green joining Watson and Sanders. It is thought that they could move on from either Sanders or Gabriel before the NFL trade deadline next week.
Gabriel, who has played just two snaps since last November, was Cleveland’s emergency quarterback for the first time after opening the season on injured reserve. He is thought to be more suited to the backup job, and Sanders did nothing to help his own cause with his ragged performance on Sunday.
So, even if Sanders isn’t traded, he could eventually be passed on the depth chart, which would likely confirm his departure this coming offseason.
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