Shedeur Sanders’ big moment arrives for Cleveland, but what is dad Deion saying ahead of Raiders start?

Shedeur Sanders is preparing for his first professional start in the NFL’s regular season. The Cleveland Browns rookie will take the field on Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium, a decision head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed on Wednesday.

The 23-year-old was pushed into action after Dillon Gabriel entered concussion protocol. Sanders had already appeared in last Sunday’s 23–16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, where he struggled coming off the bench, completing four of 16 passes with no touchdowns and one interception.

The son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders said he feels ready for the responsibility.

“I would say for sure I’m my own biggest critic, you know? So, in certain situations in the game, even in that fourth down in that last game, I wish I would have just extended the play. So mind you, I don’t listen to critics. I don’t listen to anybody that has to say that’s not within the organization, not within the team, not within the family or anything because it’s like everybody have their own perspectives, but they’re not out there doing it or they’ve done it in a past life and their time has passed.

“So, I’m just thankful that I’m living in the present and now I have the opportunity to go out there and do the best I can. Will there be mistakes? Of course, but it won’t be as many mistakes, we’re trying to minimize those as much possible.”

And the rookie was also asked about his dad’s reaction to his likely start.

“Quite honestly, right now I’m not even like, I don’t know. I don’t know. I’m so focused on what I’m doing, I don’t even be talking too many people right now...

“I ain’t talked to him today or yesterday. I talked to Shilo, Shilo called me. But I said, ‘bro, right now, if you want to talk, everybody just fly in and come see me, bro.’ I ain’t trying to be on my phone. I’m not trying to do any of that. If you want to talk, just pull up on me and then we can talk from there.

“But other than that, I ain’t trying to. I don’t even check my phone. Too many people have been texting me, ‘are you okay?’ Yes, I’m fine. I didn’t get robbed; my house did.”

You can read Sanders’ full and frank exchange with the media ahead of his big game. Cleveland is headed for a losing season, sitting at 2–8 and last in the AFC North, well out of playoff contention.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.