The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation continues to draw attention, but Shedeur Sanders will have to keep waiting for his chance. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that veteran Joe Flacco will remain the starter despite a frustrating Week 1 loss to the Bengals.

The decision sets up an emotional storyline as Flacco heads back to Baltimore to face the Ravens, a franchise where he built his legacy.

Shedeur Sanders stays behind in the depth chart

Many Browns fans have wondered if Shedeur Sanders might be given a shot against Baltimore. The answer, at least for now, is no. Sanders remains the No. 3 quarterback, with Dillon Gabriel listed as the backup. Stefanski made it clear that the rookie will continue learning from the sidelines while Flacco takes the reins.

Awful: Browns fifth-round pick QB Shedeur Sanders isn’t getting any practice reps, not even on the scout team, per Tony Rizzo.

“I’m hearing Shedeur isn’t even running scout team, he’s literally watching everyone…Bailey Zappe is running scout team…that’s what I’m hearing. Why… pic.twitter.com/07itEagBzz

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) September 12, 2025

“I understand that this is a unique situation for Joe and for the fans of their team and that type of thing, but, he’s very well aware that he’s got a job to do,” Stefanski explained. “In order to do your job, you really have to put yourself in the mindset of I got the blinders on. I’m going to do what’s in front of me and anything else will have to wait for much later.”

For Sanders, this is a test of patience. The Browns view him as part of their long-term plans.

General manager Andrew Berry has repeatedly said the goal is for Stefanski to develop both Sanders and Gabriel into reliable options for the future. That stance rules out any talk of a trade or release, signaling that the rookie’s time will come, just not yet.

Browns double down on experience in divisional battle

Cleveland’s decision reflects the urgency of competing in the AFC North. After the loss to Cincinnati, the Browns face another divisional challenge against the Ravens, while the Steelers look energized with Aaron Rodgers under center. In this environment, turning to the experience of Flacco feels like the safer move.

Stefanski even recalled similar moments from his time in Minnesota when Brett Favre returned to face the Packers. For him, Flacco’s return to Baltimore is emotional, but the focus remains squarely on winning.

For Sanders, the waiting game continues. His opportunity with the Browns will come eventually, but for now, the rookie’s role is to learn, grow, and prepare for the future.Also Read: Patrick Mahomes’ wife Brittany seemingly speaks out on Charlie Kirk’s death with cryptic post about hate and division