Overview

• Cleveland confirmed Flacco will start the opener against the Bengals after taking most first‑team reps, and he said he isn’t sure he’ll keep the job all season.
• Kevin Stefanski said Kenny Pickett (hamstring) will not play in Saturday’s preseason finale, while Shedeur Sanders (oblique) remains limited but is ramping up work.
• Multiple reports indicate the Browns may keep four quarterbacks on the 53‑man roster, with Tyler Huntley viewed as unlikely to make the final cut.
• Rookie snapshots: Sanders debuted 14-of-23 for 138 yards and two touchdowns, while Dillon Gabriel went 13-of-18 for 143 yards with a pick‑six in his start.
• A tough early slate against several 2024 playoff teams and the leverage of two 2026 first‑round picks are informing Cleveland’s short‑term choice at quarterback.