Overview
- Head coach Kevin Stefanski declined to discuss 2026 plans, saying the focus is on Cincinnati and detailing specific improvement goals such as footwork, ball placement and operation at the line.
- Through seven appearances Sanders has 1,289 passing yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions, going 2-4 as a starter entering the finale and throwing seven picks over his past three games.
- Analytics place him near the bottom of NFL quarterbacks this season in EPA per play, completion percentage over expected, catchable-throw rate and turnover-worthy throw rate.
- Rival stars Joe Burrow and Aaron Rodgers publicly praised Sanders’ composure and handling of heavy scrutiny, even as his on-field evaluation continues.
- Cleveland owns two first-round picks, heightening the offseason quarterback decision after this final look, while Cincinnati brings the league’s worst yardage defense and has confirmed Burrow will start.