The Cleveland Browns depth chart has taken center stage as the franchise gears up for its first preseason clash with the Carolina Panthers. The newly released unofficial Browns depth chart offers fans and analysts their first real glimpse into how positional battles have shaped up after a competitive training camp, drawing immediate attention to both predictable moves and notable surprises alike.
Browns Unofficial Depth Chart Released Ahead of Panthers Matchup
Cleveland announced its highly anticipated preseason personnel order on Monday, August 4, just days before the Friday night showdown with Carolina. As expected, veteran Joe Flacco sits atop the quarterback hierarchy, officially slotted as QB1 after a string of strong showings in camp. Behind him, Kenny Pickett—who’s been limited by a recent hamstring injury—holds the backup role, with third-round rookie Dillon Gabriel at QB3. The talk of the town, however, is Shedeur Sanders, the fifth-round rookie and former Colorado star, whose placement as the fourth-string quarterback was headline-grabbing for more reasons than one.
Key Points Summary—Gridiron Glance!
- Joe Flacco is named starting quarterback (QB1)
- Injuries have shuffled the quarterback rotation, with Pickett and Gabriel both nursing hamstring soreness
- Shedeur Sanders, while in the fourth spot, is expected to see extended preseason snaps
- Veteran Tyler Huntley was recently signed to add depth amid injury concerns
- Several rookies and newcomers are fighting for roster spots at other positions
Quarterback Room Faces Injuries and High Competition
The Browns’ quarterback competition has been one of the most-watched in camp. Flacco, the seasoned NFL veteran, has made the most of entrenched practice time, stepping up as Pickett recovers from his hamstring injury. “He’s pushing himself to get back to full team periods as soon as possible,” coach Kevin Stefanski remarked, highlighting the day-to-day management of the quarterback room’s health.
Meanwhile, Dillon Gabriel has also encountered hamstring soreness, while Shedeur Sanders briefly missed practice time due to arm fatigue but returned to full practice on Monday, August 4. Both Gabriel and Sanders are in line for considerable playing time against the Panthers, given the likely limited snaps for the starters during the first preseason contest.
Shedeur Sanders’ Journey Begins
Sanders’ placement on the Browns depth chart has sparked conversation across Browns Nation and social media. Fans were vocal with their opinions, some lamenting that the rookie signal-caller was fourth on the list. Yet Stefanski cautioned not to overanalyze practice pecking orders, instead directing focus to Sanders’ opportunity for live-game reps. “Reps, I think that’s pretty much it—just reps,” Sanders commented when asked about his strategy for the upcoming contest, underscoring his developmental mindset.
Veteran Addition: Tyler Huntley
Amidst their quarterback injury woes, the Browns added Tyler Huntley to their roster just before preseason play. Although Huntley’s signing came after the initial depth chart release and he’ll aim to compete for a roster spot through the preseason, his presence increases both depth and competition entering the coming slate of games.
Looking Elsewhere: Battles to Watch
While the signal-caller saga draws the most attention, this Browns depth chart contains emergent rookie names and free agents pushing for their own roster spots on both sides of the ball. With player rotations and preseason strategy typically limiting veterans’ snaps, fans should expect to see plenty of new faces making their case, especially during the second half against the Panthers.
Game Info and What’s Next
Cleveland’s preseason opener takes place Friday, August 8. Following joint practices with the Panthers, the Browns will use the matchup to evaluate new talent, sort out the crowded quarterback room, and see which unsung players rise to the occasion. The team then travels to Philadelphia and returns home to finish the preseason against the Los Angeles Rams.
The official Browns depth chart may shift as players heal and preseason results speak for themselves, but for now, fans have a clear view of where things stand as the countdown to kickoff begins. Stay tuned for updates as training camp battles continue and the Browns roster takes shape for the 2025 NFL season.
The competition is just heating up—who do you think will surprise fans by earning a bigger role? Share your thoughts in the comments below and stay connected for the latest updates all preseason long.