Overview
- Sanders will make his sixth start against the Steelers with two games left that the team is treating as a decisive evaluation for 2026.
- Coaches cite growing leadership, but his production remains poor, including a 48.6 PFF grade and a league-low passer rating over his recent five-game stretch amid heavy protection issues.
- Aaron Rodgers and Mike Tomlin publicly lauded Sanders’ toughness and week-to-week growth ahead of the AFC North matchup.
- The Browns own two first-round picks, and scenarios include reinforcing receiver and offensive line for Sanders or drafting a new quarterback, with local reporters warning that keeping Sanders alongside a top rookie could invite constant scrutiny.
- Recent projections diverge between trading up for Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, targeting Alabama’s Ty Simpson after a receiver at No. 3, or exploring a low-cost veteran such as Malik Willis, while a strong finish by Sanders could also strengthen Kevin Stefanski’s case to remain head coach.