NFL Preseason Week 3 Recap: Shedeur Sanders Struggles in Final Appearance, Detroit Lions Rookie Shines
The third week of the 2025 NFL preseason concluded with mixed results for promising rookies as Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders faced challenges in his final outing, while the Detroit Lions showcased a breakthrough performance from a rookie sensation.
Shedeur Sanders’ Rocky Final Preseason Performance
Shedeur Sanders, the Cleveland Browns’ fifth-round rookie quarterback, wrapped up his 2025 preseason showing Saturday against the Los Angeles Rams in a game that exposed the growing pains he is experiencing as he transitions into the NFL.
Entering the game in the third quarter, Sanders completed just 3 of 6 passes for 14 yards. More concerning were the five sacks he took during his limited time on the field, resulting in a net loss of 27 yards after accounting for the combined sack losses of 41 yards. Several of those sacks stemmed from Sanders attempting to extend plays rather than throwing the ball away promptly, leading to significant pressure and lost yardage. He exited with just over two minutes left, with the Browns trailing 17-16[citation:1][3][2].
This performance marked a step back compared to Sanders’ strong preseason debut against the Carolina Panthers, where he passed for 138 yards and two touchdowns without turnovers. His final preseason stat line stands at 17 completions on 29 attempts for 152 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions[citation:1].
Sanders’ future with the Browns remains uncertain as final roster decisions loom. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has already named Joe Flacco the Week 1 starter and has Dillon Gabriel ahead of Sanders on the depth chart, reflecting a potential demotion for the rookie. Analysts note that the Browns could carry all four quarterbacks on the roster, but Sanders appears to be positioned as the fourth option[citation:1][3].
Despite the difficult outing, Sanders expressed confidence in making the Browns’ roster, stating “obviously” when questioned about the final team cuts[citation:2]. However, fans and analysts debated the coaching staff’s decisions, including exposing Sanders to heavy defensive pressure with a reserve offensive line, and questioned why he was not given a chance to lead a final drive in the game. Former NFL quarterback Derek Carr voiced surprise on social media regarding the lack of opportunity for Sanders to run a two-minute drill in a game situation that could have provided valuable experience[citation:2].
Rookie Sensation Emerges with Detroit Lions
While Shedeur Sanders struggled, the Detroit Lions found a rookie who made a significant impact in the preseason’s final week. Although specifics on the Lions’ rookie standout were not detailed in the sources, the team’s overall positive takeaways highlight promising young talent making waves ahead of the regular season[citation:5].
Additional Note: Shilo Sanders Ejected in Preseason Finale
In a related storyline, Shilo Sanders, safety for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and younger brother of Shedeur Sanders, was ejected in the Buccaneers’ preseason finale after delivering a punch during a play. This rare ejection drew attention to his fierce determination to fight for a roster spot, though it ended disastrously for his immediate playing chances[citation:5].
Outlook
As NFL teams finalize their rosters this week before the regular season kicks off, rookies like Shedeur Sanders face tough battles for playing time and depth chart positioning. Browns fans and analysts will watch closely to see if Sanders can translate his preseason promise into regular season contributions amid stiff competition at quarterback. Meanwhile, the Lions’ rookie sensation adds excitement to the preseason narrative as franchises look for impactful newcomers ready to step into larger roles.
With final cuts expected by Tuesday, the next few days will clarify these rookies’ roles and shape the storylines heading into the 2025 NFL season.