Sanders Set for First NFL Start as Browns Search for Offensive Spark

The Cleveland Browns enter Week 12 with little momentum and even fewer answers. At 2–8, Cleveland has struggled to generate consistent offense, cycling through quarterbacks while attempting to stay competitive in a tight AFC landscape. Now, with starter Dillon Gabriel sidelined due to concussion protocol, the team turns to rookie Shedeur Sanders for his first NFL start.

Sanders stepped into action last week after Gabriel suffered a head injury, but the moment was unkind to the young quarterback. He completed just four passes on 16 attempts, finished with 47 yards, threw one interception, and absorbed two sacks in an uneven debut. The challenge now is seeing whether a full week of preparation can help stabilize his play.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski expressed confidence in tailoring the offense to Sanders’ strengths, noting that the coaching staff has developed a strong sense of what concepts suit the rookie’s vision and comfort level. With Cleveland’s season effectively in evaluation mode, the Browns hope a more personalized approach can unlock improved performance.

As Sanders prepares for the Raiders on Sunday, the spotlight is both an opportunity and a test. The Browns have been one of the league’s least productive passing teams, but the chance to reset the offense around a young quarterback offers at least a measure of intrigue during a difficult season.

1. A Reset for Cleveland’s Passing Game

Cleveland has struggled to move the ball through the air, averaging just 159.4 passing yards per game — better than only the Jets. Much of that stems from offensive inconsistency and an overreliance on the run game, leaving little rhythm or identity in the passing attack. Sanders inherits an offense that has spent most of 2025 searching for answers. The Raiders present a middle-of-the-pack challenge for a new starter, allowing 219.5 passing yards per game. Their coverage unit has been steady but not dominant, often forcing quarterbacks into underneath throws rather than explosive plays. For Sanders, that environment may help him ease into a manageable game plan. A more tailored approach could provide a noticeable difference. Stefanski’s emphasis on concepts that “fit Sanders’ eyes” suggests a simplified structure built around quick reads, rhythm throws, and designed movement. Those adjustments alone could elevate Sanders’ efficiency compared to last week’s emergency appearance. Given the circumstances, modest improvement would be expected. A reasonable projection would be one passing touchdown, one rushing touchdown, and surpassing Cleveland’s usual passing output. Even if the Browns fall short on the scoreboard, the game could mark a meaningful step in Sanders’ development.

2. Leaning on Judkins to Ease the Pressure

Rookie running back Quinshon Judkins has been one of Cleveland’s lone bright spots, logging 157 carries for 620 yards and five touchdowns. His volume role makes him a central part of any game plan, especially with a young quarterback under center. Sunday should be no different. Running backs and tight ends often serve as security blankets for developing quarterbacks, offering high-percentage options that lower the risk of turnovers. Judkins’ ability to pick up steady yardage and force defensive attention could create stability for Sanders early in the game. The Raiders are solid against the run, allowing just 107.3 rushing yards per game, and will likely focus heavily on containing Judkins. That could force Cleveland into predictable situations, but it may also open opportunities for play-action passing — a key area where Sanders could thrive. If the Browns keep feeding Judkins early, they can begin dictating defensive tendencies. A reasonable expectation is 20 or more carries for Judkins, even if explosive plays are limited. With the defense keying on the run, Sanders could find success with at least five completed play-action throws and potentially avoid more than two sacks. The formula may not produce fireworks, but it can help the offense function efficiently.

3. Managing Mistakes and Relying on Defense

While improvement is expected, Sanders is still a rookie making his first NFL start. Mistakes — particularly turnovers — remain likely. Ball security has been an issue across Cleveland’s quarterback room all year, and Sanders may experience similar challenges as he adjusts to NFL speed and defensive complexity. Cleveland’s defense, however, has been competitive enough to withstand offensive miscues. Against a Las Vegas offense that has struggled to find rhythm, the Browns should be positioned to prevent turnovers from turning into game-changing sequences. Complementary football will be critical as the rookie settles in. A balanced approach blending Judkins’ ground game with structured passing concepts may allow Cleveland to move the ball steadily. Even with a couple of rookie mistakes, a functional offensive showing would represent meaningful progress for a team that has labored to assemble four full quarters of cohesive play. Put together, those factors could produce the type of controlled, situational football the Browns need to pull off a win. Sanders’ first start may not be spectacular, but a composed, efficient performance could be enough to lift Cleveland to a rare bright spot in a difficult season.