ClutchPoints
The Cleveland Browns couldn’t have asked for a better way to open their 2025 preseason. Under the lights at Bank of America Stadium, the Browns rolled to a 30-10 win over the Carolina Panthers. Their performance that showcased both polish and promise from a roster still taking shape. For head coach Kevin Stefanski, it was the type of game where young players made statements. In some cases, these young ‘uns may have forced their way into deeper conversations about final roster spots.
The Browns opened their preseason with a convincing 30-10 win over the Carolina Panthers, and well, rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders wasted no time making his presence felt.
Facing Bryce Young and a Carolina unit that rolled out several starters in the opening drives, the Browns delivered a balanced showing on both sides of the ball. By the time Tyler Huntley took a knee with 1:52 left, the sideline celebrations had already begun.
Across 60 minutes, Cleveland’s young talent made the most of valuable live reps. Sanders managed the offense with poise. He even threw for two touchdowns. Receivers found their windows, backs picked up key blitzes, and the defense kept the Panthers’ quarterbacks under constant duress. It was a night where opportunity met execution. As such, the Browns walked away with more than just a win.
Here we’ll try to look at and discuss the Cleveland Browns roster hopefuls who improved stock after win vs. Panthers. While it’s still just preseason, three roster hopefuls left the game with their stock trending up.
Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders entered Friday night carrying both curiosity and expectation. By the time he walked off the field late in the third quarter, he had delivered a performance that both confirmed his upside and hinted at his developmental path.
After Carolina scored on their opening drive to take a 7-0 lead, Sanders responded with poise. he led back-to-back scoring drives capped by touchdown strikes to WR Kaden Davis. The first came on a dart through tight coverage in the end zone, a throw that required timing, confidence, and accuracy. The second came after RB Ahmani Marshall’s textbook blitz pickup. It bought Sanders the time to scan and deliver another end zone connection to Davis.
In the first half alone, Sanders went 11-for-18 for 103 yards and two scores. He showed a blend of touch and quick decision-making. He extended plays when needed, avoided costly turnovers, and flashed mobility with four carries for 19 yards. His final stat line of 14-of-23 for 138 yards, two touchdowns, two sacks reflected an encouraging debut.
Was it perfect? No. There were a couple of throws that sailed and some moments where his timing against NFL speed was still catching up. However, the Browns saw what they hoped for. They saw command in the huddle, composure under pressure, and enough flashes to keep fans and coaches eager for more. If...
