Following medical evaluation, the Browns confirmed Sanders sustained an oblique strain. He is considered day-to-day and will miss the second joint practice on August 14. Sanders is also unlikely to participate in the second preseason game against the Eagles on August 16.
This injury comes after Sanders’ strong debut in his first NFL preseason start, where he completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns against the Panthers. The Browns’ quarterback unit has been hampered by injuries throughout training camp, with Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel both recently returning from hamstring issues.
Oblique injuries—often called side strains—are common in sports involving twisting or powerful rotational movements, such as football and baseball. The oblique muscles, which run along the sides of the abdomen, are crucial for core stability and for actions like throwing. According to a report from ESPN, these injuries typically cause sharp pain in the rib cage, especially during twisting motions, and can range from mild strains to severe tears.
Treatment for oblique strains is generally conservative and includes rest, ice, pain relievers such as ibuprofen, and physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility. Most athletes recover within a few weeks, but the timeline can vary depending on the severity of the injury. In Major League Baseball, for example, hitters with Grade 1 oblique strains typically return in about 27 days, while pitchers may need up to 35 days to fully recover, as detailed in MLB’s injury glossary.
Prevention of oblique injuries focuses on proper conditioning, gradual increases in activity, thorough warm-ups, and targeted core strengthening. For quarterbacks like Sanders, the oblique muscles are constantly engaged during throwing and rapid movements, making them particularly susceptible to strain if overloaded or fatigued.
The Browns will continue to monitor Sanders’ status as he recovers, with his return to practice and game action dependent on his progression and symptom resolution.
For more on oblique injuries and their impact on athletes, see detailed overviews from Healthline and recent epidemiological studies in professional sports.