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The Cleveland Browns have introduced a focused developmental initiative known as the "Hungry Dawgs Period" as part of head coach Kevin Stefanski's plan to accelerate the growth of rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
The strategy - highlighted by NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport - features extra reps for younger players during practice and occasionally after, with the aim of preparing Sanders for his first NFL start against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Called upon after starter Dillon Gabriel entered concussion protocol, Sanders took the reins in Week 12.
Stefanski confirmed Sanders will receive first-team reps throughout the week and will take the helm against the Raiders. The coach said, "You want to make sure that all the concepts are things that he feels confident in."
According to reports, Sanders has been participating in the Hungry Dawgs sessions on top of his regular prep.
The Hungry Dawgs Period is not just standard scout-team work. It involves eight to ten additional repetitions of the upcoming game plan for players who haven't traditionally had first-team exposure.
For Sanders, who until recently was buried behind veterans and received limited reps, these extra sessions are vital for building comfort with the offense and timing with receivers.
Inside the Browns facility, coaches say Sanders has shown increased focus: he's been seen with an iPad studying film even during meals and spending one-on-one time with Stefanski analyzing his reps.
With the deep-ball strength that made him a standout in college, the plan reportedly incorporates more vertical concepts that align with his skill set-giving him a clearer path in his first start.
While his debut performance against the Ravens was rough - completing just four of sixteen passes for 47 yards and one interception - the team emphasises long-term development rather than one-off results.
Stefanski's plan is centered on growth, rep-by-rep. Sanders' first start may be Sunday's headline, but the real story is the behind-the-scenes process that hopes to shape Cleveland's quarterback room for the future.