Introduction
Mary Kay Cabot, longtime beat reporter for the Cleveland Browns, has stunned fans with a major announcement: rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is expected to make his first NFL start against the Las Vegas Raiders. This revelation comes amid a swirl of drama — including Sanders’ shaky debut, injury to fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel, and questions about the franchise’s quarterback direction. But Cabot’s reporting suggests that the Browns are ready to roll the dice on Sanders, and that decision could signal a turning point in a chaotic season.

Background: The Rise of Shedeur Sanders
Shedeur Sanders was drafted by the Browns in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, a surprising slide for a highly touted college talent. (SI) During training camp and early in the season, he worked mostly with the scout team, honing his skills against the Browns’ defensive front. (SI) His development earned praise from Cabot, who reported that the organization believed both Sanders and second-year rookie Dillon Gabriel were “worth keeping and developing.” (Last Word On Sports)

The Unexpected Opportunity
Gabriel, who had been named the starter, suffered a head injury and entered the concussion protocol following a loss to the Baltimore Ravens. (Reuters) That opened the door for Sanders to step in. In his NFL debut, he completed just 4 of 16 passes for 47 yards and threw an interception, while also taking a couple of sacks. (New York Post) It wasn’t a picture-perfect entrance, but it was his chance — and the Browns organization is giving him that chance.

Mary Kay Cabot’s Bombshell
According to Cabot’s reporting for Cleveland.com, despite the rough debut, Sanders is expected to start in Week 12 versus the Raiders, “barring something unexpected.” (steelersdepot.com) She cites Quinn that Gabriel’s recovery is progressing, but he may not be cleared in time to prepare fully — giving Sanders the clear path to be QB1. (Yahoo Thể Thao) Cabot further reported that the Browns will not open Deshaun Watson’s practice window this week, effectively sidelining another veteran option and leaving Sanders as their leading candidate under center. (Yahoo Thể Thao)

Why This Is a Big Deal
This move is significant for several reasons. First, it underscores Cabot’s influence in the Browns’ QB conversation. Her reporting has frequently shaped how fans understand the team’s decision-making, and this could be one of her biggest calls yet. Second, naming Sanders as the starter is a bold gamble — given his inexperience, little first-team practice reps, and rough performance in relief, many might question whether he’s ready to lead.

Yet, there’s context behind the gamble. The Browns’ offense has struggled this season, and their quarterback room has lacked consistency. (Reuters) By turning to Sanders, they may be signaling a willingness to reset, to lean into youth, and potentially build long-term — even if it’s risky in the short term.

The Narrative: From Underdog to Potential Leader
Sanders’ journey has been far from easy. After being passed over early in the draft, he fell to the fifth round. But he never complained publicly. Instead, he embraced his role on the scout team, taking every rep as an opportunity to improve. In interviews with Cabot, he described scout‑team work as a crash course — day in, day out, facing their own defensive front as if it were real game action. (SI)

Now, he gets a full week with the first‑team offense ahead of his first NFL start. Cabot emphasizes that the Browns are tailoring the game plan to his strengths, giving him the best chance to succeed. (FOX Sports)

Pressure and Expectations
The pressure is immense. As a rookie making his first start, Sanders must prove he’s more than just a developmental project. The fanbase is watching closely, pundits are weighing in, and the Browns’ front office has to justify their trust. If he falters, critics will point to his poor debut and limited preparation. But if he shines, he could force the Browns to reevaluate their timeline for Gabriel and perhaps even Watson’s return.

Complicating matters is the emotional backdrop — Sanders’ father, Deion Sanders, is widely respected in the football world. His expectations are high, and every move his son makes will be scrutinized not just for his talent but for his ability to handle adversity. (Talksport)

What Could This Mean for the Browns
If Sanders performs well, this could be the beginning of a new era in Cleveland. The Browns might double down on him as their future franchise quarterback. They could build the offense around his arm, athleticism, and ability to operate in a dynamic system.

On the flip side, if the start goes poorly, the Browns will face difficult questions: Did they rush him? Are they undermining Gabriel’s development? Will Watson’s return complicate the quarterback picture again? And perhaps most quietly: Did Cabot’s reporting influence a decision that is more hopeful than practical?

Conclusion & Outlook
Mary Kay Cabot’s bombshell isn’t just a headline — it’s a gamble. Naming Shedeur Sanders QB1 against the Raiders is a high-stakes move by the Browns. It reflects a team that is willing to roll the dice, prioritize youth, and potentially pivot toward a long-term plan built around a young quarterback they believe in. For Sanders, it’s a defining moment — a chance to silence doubt, showcase his talent, and begin a career on his own terms.

As game day approaches, all eyes will be on Allegiant Stadium to see if this bold call pays off. Can Sanders deliver under pressure? Will the Browns’ faith be rewarded? Or will this be remembered as a stretch too far? Either way, Cabot’s report has changed the narrative — and the 2025 season for Cleveland has just gotten a lot more interesting.