Stephen A. & Dan Orlovsky’s HONEST REACTION to Shedeur Sanders’ situation 👀 | First Take

Summary

The discussion centers around Shadour Sanders' performance and treatment by the Cleveland Browns, following a poor preseason game. While some critics claim Browns coach Kevin Stefanski might be sabotaging Sanders' development, the panel argues against these accusations. They stress that Shadour's struggles are part of his development, and that the team's decision-making is based on his actual performance rather than bias. The conversation highlights the tension between public expectations and the reality of the Browns' quarterback competition, emphasizing that Sanders' future is uncertain unless other quarterbacks fail or get injured.

Takeaways

• 😀 Shadour Sanders faced a tough performance in the Browns' preseason game against the Rams, completing only 3 of 6 passes for 14 yards and being sacked five times.
• 😀 Kevin Stefanski, the Browns' coach, dismissed claims of sabotaging Shadour Sanders, stressing his commitment to developing all rookies equally.
• 😀 Kurt Warner expressed disappointment over the lack of opportunities for Shadour Sanders to compete against the Rams, especially in comparison to Dylan Gabriel's more favorable chances.
• 😀 Stephen A. Smith defended Stefanski, stating that accusations of sabotage were extreme and unfair, as the coach has a strong track record of success.
• 😀 RC argued that while Stefanski's handling of Shadour Sanders deserves some criticism, it is false to claim sabotage, highlighting that Shadour's development isn’t prioritized over other players.
• 😀 The narrative of Shadour Sanders being a 'diamond in the rough' after being drafted in the fifth round contrasts with the Browns' assessment of him as a developmental player.
• 😀 RC emphasized that Shadour Sanders needed to prove he was so much better than other quarterbacks to earn more opportunities, which he didn't do.
• 😀 The concept of 'sabotage' was rejected as lazy, immature, and disingenuous, with RC firmly stating that the Browns' staff is committed to player development across the board.
• 😀 The criticism of Stefanski stems from a larger narrative surrounding Shadour Sanders' unexpected draft position and the high expectations placed on him by the public and analysts.
• 😀 Stephen A. Smith suggested that the external noise around Shadour Sanders, particularly his connection to Deion Sanders, may have influenced his draft position and future prospects with the Browns.

Q & A

Why is there skepticism surrounding Kevin Stefanski's handling of the quarterback competition?

Skepticism arises from Shadour Sanders' poor performance in the preseason game against the Rams, where he struggled significantly. Many believed he should have been given a chance in critical moments, like a two-minute drill, to prove his potential.

What was Stephen A. Smith's stance on Kevin Stefanski's actions during the preseason game?

Stephen A. Smith defended Stefanski, stating that while he would have liked to see Sanders in a two-minute drive, accusing Stefanski of sabotaging Sanders was unfair and extreme. He believes Stefanski's character does not align with such accusations.

What did Kurt Warner have to say about Shadour Sanders' performance?

Kurt Warner expressed disappointment about Shadour Sanders' performance, noting that while Sanders didn’t have the same opportunities as other quarterbacks, he still struggled badly in the game, which made it hard to assess his abilities properly.

Why does RC criticize Stefanski for not allowing Sanders to finish the game?

RC believes that allowing Sanders to finish the game would have been valuable for his development, especially in learning how to handle adversity and rebound from a tough performance.

What is RC's perspective on the draft expectations for Shadour Sanders?

RC argues that the Browns did not treat Sanders as a top prospect despite expectations that he would be drafted earlier. He feels that the organization sees Sanders as a developmental player, and that the coaching staff has been fair in giving him opportunities in line with his draft position.

How does Stephen A. Smith respond to the idea of Shadour Sanders being sabotaged by the Browns?

Stephen A. Smith rejects the idea of sabotage, emphasizing that accusations against Kevin Stefanski are baseless and irresponsible. He also pointed out that such narratives could have been a factor in Sanders' fall to the 144th overall pick in the draft.

Why is there debate about whether Shadour Sanders will start for the Cleveland Browns this season?

The debate stems from Sanders' inconsistent performances in the preseason, with a strong showing against the Carolina Panthers followed by a poor game against the Rams. The Browns have other quarterbacks ahead of him, and unless there are injuries or a complete collapse from the others, Sanders is unlikely to start.

What are the implications of Shadour Sanders' struggles for his NFL future?

If Sanders doesn’t improve, he may not see significant playing time this season, and it could impact his career trajectory. His poor preseason game could be a lasting memory unless unforeseen circumstances open up opportunities for him.

How does the performance of Sanders in the preseason relate to his potential starting role?

Sanders' preseason performances have been inconsistent, with a promising start followed by a disastrous game. These fluctuations raise questions about his readiness to start in the NFL, especially with the Browns having other quarterbacks who are perceived as more reliable at this point.

What role does Shadour Sanders' connection to Deion Sanders play in the narrative surrounding his career?

The connection to Deion Sanders plays a significant role in the public's perception of Sanders' treatment. Some believe that the Browns may have viewed him through a different lens due to his high-profile lineage, which added to the skepticism around his draft position and development.