Shedeur Sanders Deflects Criticism of Browns Playcalling in NFL Debut
Shedeur Sanders skillfully navigates quarterback media relations in his NFL debut, demonstrating loyalty to his coach despite challenging play calls during the Cleveland Browns' 26-8 loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
Shedeur Sanders made his first NFL start Sunday and immediately demonstrated he understands the unwritten rules of quarterback media relations: never criticize your coach.
The Cleveland Browns rookie took exception when asked about two costly fourth-down calls during the team's 26-8 home loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Both plays—a stuffed run at the 49ers 20-yard line and a direct snap to tight end Harold Fannin Jr. that resulted in a fumble and touchdown—went sideways, but Sanders wasn't biting.
"I mean, first, that's a rude question to ask if I think it was a great call by my coach," Sanders replied when asked if he liked the aggressiveness of head coach Kevin Stefanski's playcalling.
When the reporter clarified he was asking about the strategic approach rather than the execution, Sanders doubled down.
"I like being out there playing," Sanders said. "So, whatever that comes with, it comes with, you know? Like, we're not going to be here and ever point fingers at no coach or do anything like that."
The exchange signals that Sanders, known for speaking freely, is quickly learning the political minefield of being an NFL starter. Protecting coaches—rightly or wrongly—has become standard operating procedure for quarterbacks navigating the modern media landscape.
On the field, Sanders showed competence in his debut, completing 16 of 26 passes for 146 yards and one touchdown in the loss.
