Overview
- Steelers coach Mike Tomlin praised Sanders’ growth, toughness and rapport with fellow rookies ahead of Sunday’s matchup.
- Head coach Kevin Stefanski highlighted Sanders’ rising command in the huddle as reporting describes him trending toward the 2026 starting role.
- Production remains weak by key metrics, including a 48.6 PFF grade (41st of 41), a 73.7 passer rating over his last five games and 13 sacks in that span, with a recent 69% completion game against Buffalo showing some improvement.
- Cleveland is 3-12 with the No. 3 pick and two first-rounders, positioning the franchise to either bolster the offense around Sanders or draft another quarterback.
- Reporters warn that drafting a QB while keeping Sanders could reignite a high-profile “circus,” citing fan backlash and boos that accompanied the earlier decision to start Dillon Gabriel.