In the Browns' first padded practice on July 29, Joe Flacco and Shedeur Sanders dueled for the starting QB spot while Kenny Pickett sat with an injury. Who won the day?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The unmistakable sound of pads popping echoed through Berea for the first time this summer as the Cleveland Browns held their initial padded practice of 2025 training camp on Tuesday. With the intensity cranked up, the spotlight burned even brighter on the team's most compelling storyline: the wide-open quarterback competition. While Kenny Pickett watched from the sidelines, veteran Joe Flacco and rookie Shedeur Sanders put on a show, offering a glimpse into what could be a season-defining decision.
'I've been trying to keep my head down this whole time anyway... Couldn't say.' - Joe Flacco on the QB competition.
With Kenny Pickett sidelined by a hamstring injury, the live reps were split between Joe Flacco and Shedeur Sanders, and neither disappointed. Social media was buzzing with clips of both quarterbacks slinging it, but it was the rookie who delivered the day's final highlight. Sanders capped off the practice by finding tight end Sal Cannella for a touchdown, a play that immediately went viral among the Browns faithful. Despite the daily highlights, Coach Kevin Stefanski insists the competition remains a three-horse race. He confirmed that Pickett is still very much a candidate for the starting job once he's healthy, adding another layer of intrigue to the most-watched position battle in camp.
While the quarterback situation dominated headlines, the injury report remains a key focus for the team. Besides Pickett, several other key players were limited or held out. Running back Jerome Ford was a limited participant with an undisclosed issue, though reports suggest he is close to a full return. Wide receiver Michael Woods II (hand), guard Tevin Jenkins, and cornerback Tony Brown II also remained out. The good news is that the coaching staff has indicated all are progressing well, a crucial factor as the team looks to build chemistry and depth before the season begins.
The move to full pads always signifies a shift in training camp, moving from drills to more game-like situations. For fans who attended the 2 P.M. practice, it was the first real look at the physicality of the 2025 squad. While no specific fan events were held Tuesday, the energy was palpable. The team is currently 0-0 and technically sits atop the AFC North standings, a clean slate that everyone in the building is eager to build upon, starting with these intense, foundational practices.
The first day of pads set a new tone for training camp, but it's just the beginning. All eyes will remain on the quarterback battle as the team continues to practice in Berea. The key now is not just who makes the best throws, but who can stay healthy and seize command of this offense as the preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers draws closer. One thing is certain: the competition is real, and every rep counts.
