Shedeur Sanders Has a Shot to Shake Up the AFC North - But First, He Needs to Earn Cleveland’s Trust
With two games left in a forgettable season, the Cleveland Browns sit at 3-12. But despite the record, there’s still something worth watching in Cleveland - and his name is Shedeur Sanders.
The rookie quarterback is getting a crash course in what it means to lead an NFL offense, and while the growing pains have been obvious, so is the potential. The Browns need to see more from Sanders down the stretch to determine whether he’s part of their long-term plans under center. And with the Pittsburgh Steelers coming to town Sunday, the stakes - both for Sanders and the AFC North - just got a little more interesting.
A Rookie with a Chance to Play Spoiler
Here’s where things get fun. The Baltimore Ravens are still chasing a division title, sitting one game behind the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC North after a big win over the Green Bay Packers on Saturday night. If the Browns can pull off an upset over Pittsburgh on Sunday, it sets up a winner-take-all showdown between the Ravens and Steelers in the final week of the season.
So yes, the Browns - and specifically Sanders - have a real chance to play spoiler. And don’t be surprised if Ravens fans suddenly become the most vocal Shedeur supporters in the building on Sunday.
Conservative Calls, Lingering Questions
Cleveland’s playcalling in recent weeks has been noticeably cautious. While the coaching staff hasn’t come out and said it outright, the offense has clearly been dialed back since Sanders took over. That’s raised some eyebrows among fans, many of whom want to see the rookie let loose and show what he can really do.
The issue? Turnovers.
Last week against the Buffalo Bills, Sanders completed 20 of 29 passes for 157 yards and a touchdown - solid numbers on paper. But two interceptions proved costly, both leading directly to points for Buffalo. That’s the kind of stuff that erases any chance of momentum and keeps coaches reaching for the run sheet.
Still, it’s hard to ignore the circumstances around him. Sanders is operating behind a patchwork offensive line - backups at multiple spots - and outside of tight end Harold Fannin Jr., he’s working with a limited cast of weapons.
That context matters. And even with the odds stacked against him, Sanders has managed to build a strong connection with Fannin, who’s quickly becoming his go-to target.
A Big Opportunity on a Big Stage
This Sunday isn’t just another game for Sanders. It’s a chance to show growth, poise, and command in a division rivalry that still carries weight - even if the Browns are out of playoff contention. It’s also a chance to prove he can take care of the football against one of the more aggressive defenses in the league.
If Sanders can avoid the turnovers and keep the Browns competitive, he’ll give the front office something to think about heading into the offseason. And if he can help knock the Steelers off their perch in the process? Well, let’s just say he’ll have some unexpected fans in Baltimore singing his praises.
There’s no sugarcoating the Browns’ season - it’s been rough. But these final two games are about more than just pride.
For Shedeur Sanders, they’re about proving he belongs. And for the Ravens?
They’re hoping he proves it this Sunday.