Shedeur Sanders made his second career start for the Cleveland Browns on Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. However, after leading the Browns to an impressive 24-10 win in his first start, Sanders and the Browns faltered against the Niners in Week 13, 26-8.
Sanders finished with 16-of-25 completed passes for 149 yards, one touchdown and zero interceptions. It was a noteworthy performance from the former Colorado Buffaloes star, but it was far from enough to lift Cleveland to what would have been its second straight win.
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On Wednesday, the Browns opened quarterback Deshaun Watson’s practice window, which could potentially have a significant impact on Sanders’ status as the Browns’ starting QB.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) looks back after the game against the New York Giants.© Scott Galvin-Imagn Images
Waston has not played for the Browns this season after re-rupturing his Achilles in January. He missed the remainder of the 2024 campaign. The three-time Pro Bowler has since been recovering from a second surgery on his Achilles. He took a significant step in his return to action on Wednesday.
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Watson now has a 21-day practice window to get himself ready for a potential comeback. The Browns have yet to confirm anything, but this is a big development that impacts Sanders directly.
Sanders took over the QB1 role after fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel suffered an injury. Sanders has since been Cleveland’s starter, but Watson’s imminent return complicates the quarterback situation.
For his part, however, Sanders is staying focused on the task at hand. When asked to share his reaction to Watson’s return to practice, the 23-year-old rookie opted not to address the matter directly.
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“Well, I would say I’m just excited for an opportunity to go out there and play,” Sanders said. “Last week wasn’t the best, so just having the opportunity to go out there and play.”
Sanders is expected to start on Sunday against the Tennessee Titans. The Browns enter that game with a 3-9 record. This is a favorable matchup against a 1-11 Titans side, which should be an excellent opportunity for Sanders to secure his second career win as a starter.
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The Browns will host the Week 14 matchup at Huntington Bank Field, with kickoff scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET.
Related: Browns, 49ers Awaiting NFL Punishment Decision on Play Involving Shedeur Sanders
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 4, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.