The Cleveland Browns finalized a Joe Flacco trade with the Cincinnati Bengals on Tuesday, a move elevating rookie Shedeur Sanders to the team’s primary backup quarterback behind starter Dillon Gabriel.
Shedeur Sanders Becomes Browns Backup QB
With the departure of Flacco, Sanders now stands as the number two option for the Browns offense. The move also leaves Bailey Zappe, currently on the practice squad, as the only other veteran quarterback in the room.
Shedeur Sanders on Joe Flacco Trade
Sanders spoke about his relationship with the veteran, noting he leaned on him for guidance. “He was definitely somebody I leaned on for wisdom, and I feel he helped me a lot,” Sanders stated.
He added that he was happy for Flacco despite being astonished by the trade. “He helped me a lot in my time being here in Cleveland and his time being here in Cleveland. Everybody has their own destinies and have their own plans …
I’m just happy for him.”
Cleveland Browns Quarterback Situation
The roster change follows a 21-17 loss to the Minnesota Vikings where the offense struggled. Dillon Gabriel finished the game 19-of-33 with 190 passing yards and two touchdowns.
In the fourth quarter, the Browns offense punted four times. Three of those drives ended as a three-and-out, failing to generate momentum late in the game.
Sanders Hopes for Future Game Action
Sanders has previously stated he believes he can perform better than most NFL starters and now hopes to get meaningful game action this season. The Browns are scheduled to play the Pittsburgh Steelers on the road this Sunday.
