Shedeur Sanders Reacts to Being Named Browns' QB1 vs. Raiders Ahead of 1st NFL Start

Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders officially will be making his first career start on Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders, and he's not shying away from the pressure he'll be facing in his new role.

"I know our fans have a lot of expectations and hope, and I would be doing a disservice to myself and a disservice to the organization if I didn't feel like I am the guy," Sanders told reporters on Wednesday. "I did everything I need to, I'm doing everything I need to prepare to be the best version of myself as possible. ... I'm just excited for everything. I feel like I'm the guy, I know I'm the guy, but you'll just have to be able to see."

Sanders got his first taste of NFL action this past Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens when he was inserted into the game in the second half in place of fellow rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who suffered a concussion. He was 4-of-16 for 47 yards and an interception in a 23-16 loss, which dropped Cleveland's record to 2-8.

After the loss, Sanders admitted that he didn't have any time to build chemistry with the first-team offense before being thrust into the game. That will change this week, as the offensive game plan will be built around him and his skill set. He told reporters that he's looking forward to getting some hands-on experience with the starting offense.

"I'm more of a feel type of person, that's how I learn, that's how I do everything," Sanders said. "I'm not just 'I'ma just watch it, and it's just gonna happen.' No, I gotta be out there and feel it, I gotta move around. There's so many details that it takes for me to feel my best and play my best. I'm doing everything in my power, and the team's doing everything to help me get prepared."

The Browns will be facing another struggling team in the Raiders, who also have a 2-8 record. Perhaps Sanders will be able to excel against an easier opponent, and he sounded confident about his chances to impress on Sunday.

"I think it's everything we all think," Sanders said of what he expects from his first start. "I think it's gonna be exciting. I know a lot of y'all are gonna be there, I know you can't miss it. You cannot miss this moment."

The Browns are certainly hoping that Sanders' confidence level will translate to the field, as he will now have the chance to prove he can be a key part of the team's future.