Browns vs Panthers Showdown: Live Updates, Key Highlights & Expert Predictions for Sunday’s NFL Clash

The Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers kick off their 2025 NFL preseason Friday night, August 8, at 7 p.m. ET inside Bank of America Stadium—a matchup already generating national buzz thanks to rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders’ expected debut for the Browns and first-year Panthers head coach Dave Canales’ new-look offense. Joint practices elevate stakes Both teams are holding back-to-back joint practices in Charlotte this week, giving fans an early look at positional battles and scheme tweaks. Canales praised the Panthers’ energy despite torrential rain Tuesday, saying the wet-ball work “will pay off when the games count”. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski echoed that sentiment, emphasizing controlled competitive reps for his revamped receiving corps headlined by Amari Cooper and speedy second-year wideout Cedric Tillman. Spotlight on Shedeur Sanders With veteran Deshaun Watson sitting, fifth-round rookie Shedeur Sanders is slated to take the first preseason snap for Cleveland. The former Colorado standout’s timing with Cooper and tight end David Njoku will be heavily scrutinized by a national TV audience and by fantasy-football managers already eyeing sleeper potential. If Sanders flashes poise against Carolina’s aggressive front—anchored by Brian Burns and Derrick Brown—he could tighten Cleveland’s backup-quarterback race. Panthers’ offensive reset Panthers fans will finally see Canales’ up-tempo, motion-heavy system built around quarterback Bryce Young, who spent the offseason adding muscle and chemistry with new weapons Diontae Johnson and rookie tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders. Expect plenty of quick throws and designed rollouts aimed at neutralizing Cleveland’s Myles Garrett, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year. Key storylines to watch • Trenches test: Browns tackles Jedrick Wills Jr. and Jack Conklin face a litmus test versus Burns and rookie edge rusher Demeioun “Chop” Robinson. • Running-back rotations: Chuba Hubbard vs. Miles Sanders for Carolina; Nick Chubb’s return timetable opens reps for Jerome Ford and rookie Quinshon Judkins. • Weather factor: Muggy, storm-threatened Charlotte afternoons have forced wet-ball drills all week, and scattered showers remain in Friday’s forecast. How to watch, stream & listen Local fans can catch Browns-produced coverage on News 5 Cleveland, while Panthers regional viewers can tune to WRAL-TV FOX 50. Nationally, NFL Network will simulcast the game; SiriusXM channels 226 (Browns) and 823 (Panthers) provide live radio. SEO takeaway “Browns vs Panthers preseason,” “Shedeur Sanders Browns debut,” and “how to watch Browns Panthers 2025” are surging queries as kickoff nears. Bookmark this page for live updates, injury reports, and standout highlights once the two franchises renew acquaintances Friday night in Charlotte.