The question burning in Browns fans’ minds right now is one steeped in uncertainty: who will be the backup quarterback for Week 6? This became a hot topic after the team traded Joe Flacco to the Bengals on Tuesday, sparking a wave of speculation. Many immediately wondered, does this move automatically mean Shedeur Sanders steps up as the number two quarterback in Cleveland? But here’s where it gets controversial — the answer isn’t as clear-cut as you might think.
On Cleveland’s unofficial depth chart, Shedeur Sanders is indeed listed as the backup behind fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel. However, Sanders isn’t the only healthy quarterback in the locker room. The Browns also have Bailey Zappe, who’s currently on the practice squad and not reflected on the 53-man roster or unofficial chart. Zappe isn’t new to the Browns’ system either — he started the last game of last season for Cleveland and brings valuable NFL experience, having played in 15 games with nine starts after being a 2022 fourth-round draft pick.
When asked at his Wednesday press conference if Sanders would fill the backup role against the Steelers, head coach Kevin Stefanski declined to give a direct answer. Instead, he emphasized that the team is still sorting out roster decisions and prioritizes the development and well-being of its players, especially the younger ones. Stefanski explained, "I always think carefully about these young players we’re invested in – making changes like last week when we made Dillon the starter takes serious consideration. We want to do what’s best for their growth and for the team, so I’ll wait to make a final decision later this week."
Stefanski’s cautious approach reflects his desire to set every player, including Sanders and Zappe, up for success rather than rushing a decision. He praised the work ethic and commitment of the young quarterbacks, stating, "This isn’t a group you have to push much. Whether it’s weights, meetings, or practice, these guys are putting in the effort, and that’s exciting to witness as a coach. You can clearly see it in Shedeur and the others."
So, what exactly does Sanders need to do to earn the backup spot? Stefanski bluntly said there isn’t a single factor. His focus remains on making choices that serve the players’ development and the team’s best interests. It’s a nuanced decision involving performance, growth potential, and readiness.
Meanwhile, Dillon Gabriel is confirmed to start his second game of the season on Sunday against Pittsburgh. The Browns’ final roster moves before the game will reveal if Bailey Zappe gets promoted from the practice squad to the active 53-man roster, potentially as the backup or the emergency third quarterback.
This situation raises some intriguing questions for fans and analysts alike. Should the Browns prioritize experience with Zappe or invest in the youth and future potential of Sanders? Does patience in quarterback development pay off in the long term, or does it risk short-term performance? And most provocatively, is Stefanski’s reluctance to name a clear backup a sign of confidence in his young QBs or uncertainty about the best path forward?
What do you think? Is the Browns’ approach the smartest way to handle their quarterback depth, or should they make a more decisive move now? Share your thoughts below—this debate is just getting started.
