Is it "Perfect Timing" in Cleveland for the embattled 5th rounder?

Yes, it is just a preseason game featuring two of the worst teams in football, but Sanders showed out in his first NFL action, proving to the Browns and America that the projected 4th string QB may have more to offer than his 5th round draft selection. 

Sanders (14-23,138 YDS, 2TD) performed under an unusually bright preseason spotlight. With a roster that holds six quarterbacks, he made his case for a roster spot and the potential for more first-team reps moving forward. 

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed he was both pleased with Sanders' performance last night and that he will get more reps in practice ahead of the Browns' next preseason game against the Eagles. 

In preseason games, fans should look for the traits a player demonstrates. With a young quarterback, they look for good decision-making and taking care of the football. Sanders accomplished both, looking savvy in the pocket, going through his progressions, and being adaptable to Stefanksi's offense, including playing under center, which he rarely did at Colorado due to poor offensive line play and playing in a spread offense.  

Sanders connected with Rookie Tight End Kaden Davis in the endzone twice in the first half,  while leading the offense on a third quarter touchdown drive before being replaced by recently signed veteran Tyler Huntley. 

It is unclear how much more Sanders will play beyond next week's game, especially with fellow backups Kenny Pickett and Dillion Gabriel expected to return from injury. For now, the Browns showed that they have something in their young talent that may have been overlooked for what many scouts believed to be character issues.