Shedeur Sanders makes NFL debut tonight as Browns starting quarterback against Panthers

Shedeur Sanders is ready for his first NFL debut as a starting quarterback. The Cleveland Browns will take on the Carolina Panthers to start their 2025 preseason on Friday evening, August 8, 2025. The kickoff for this match is 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time in Charlotte, North Carolina. Chosen in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft , Shedeur Sanders is expected to see substantial action. Following his college success, fans have been impatiently waiting to see how he performs professionally.


Shedeur Sanders makes NFL debut as starting quarterback for Cleveland Browns tonight in Charlotte

The Cleveland Browns confirmed that rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders will start under center tonight against the Carolina Panthers. At Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, the game will be held. This is Shedeur Sanders’ first big moment in the NFL since being drafted earlier this year.

Wearing jersey number 12, Shedeur Sanders had a brilliant collegiate career at Colorado. Hall of Famer Deion Sanders is his father, which has drawn more focus on his path.

Shedeur Sanders plays football today for the Cleveland Browns #DawgPound #PerfectTiming⌚️ pic.twitter.com/3gzD5BCUbH

— Just One More Before I J Money (@C_J_Money_) August 8, 2025

He joined a crowded quarterback room in Cleveland, which includes Deshaun Watson, Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Tyler Huntley.

According to team reports, Shedeur will play most of the game to give coaches a good look at his skills. Browns fans hope he’ll bring fresh energy and accuracy to the team’s offense.

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Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Others Also Competing in Camp

All six quarterbacks have been putting in a lot of effort at the Cleveland Browns training camp in Berea, Ohio, which started in late July 2025. During practice on June 12, veteran veteran Joe Flacco was observed leading younger players.

While Tyler Huntley adds his agility to the group, Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel have also been switching turns. “Shedeur has shown great confidence and control in practices,” one Cleveland Browns staff member told reporters earlier this week.

The Cleveland Browns’ coaching staff will closely watch his decision-making, footwork, and ability to handle pressure tonight. This preseason game gives Shedeur Sanders his first real test in the NFL spotlight, and fans are excited to see how he performs.