December 26, 2025

Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders was resilient in Week 16 against the Buffalo Bills and has an easier Week 17 matchup hosting the Pittsburgh Steelers. The rookie, who was dealing with a minor injury to his throwing hand, completed 20 of his 29 pass attempts for 157 yards and one touchdown, his highest completion percentage of the season, but threw two interceptions. Sanders was not listed on the Browns' injury report this week, so the injury to his right pinky finger that brought him out for a few snaps in Week 16 is unlikely to be a serious concern. In addition to his passing improvement, Sanders' four rushing attempts for 49 yards were season highs, adding a new facet to his game. However, his favorite target, rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (groin), sustained an injury in Friday's practice, and his availability in Week 17 is uncertain. Moreover, rookie running back Quinshon Judkins (ankle, leg) was placed on IR after undergoing season-ending surgery following his catastrophic Week 16 injury. The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense has given up the eighth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this year, and Sanders is showing more rushing potential, which does provide the rookie quarterback a more stable fantasy points floor. However, the game environment is unfavorable to Sanders. With injuries stacking up on the offensive side of the ball, he is a desperation, deep-league Superflex option for Week 17 vs. the Steelers.--Matt McCauley
Source: ESPN