Shedeur Sanders Declines Ravens Backup Role, Joins Browns

Shedeur Sanders, a rookie quarterback, was a coveted prospect for the Baltimore Ravens during the 2025 NFL Draft, with the team planning to select him in the fifth round. However, Sanders explicitly informed the Ravens that he did not want to join their roster due to the presence of Lamar Jackson, a two-time MVP and established starter, which would have relegated Sanders to a backup role. Respecting his wishes, the Ravens passed on Sanders, who was then picked three spots later by their division rival, the Cleveland Browns, where he currently ranks third on the depth chart behind veteran Joe Flacco and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel. Despite being third-string, Cleveland offers Sanders a better opportunity to compete for playing time, especially given the Browns' recent roster changes that created space for him. This situation has sparked interest among fans and analysts, particularly as Sanders will face the Ravens in Baltimore, highlighting a unique twist in his NFL journey. Meanwhile, Baltimore has already prepared strategies for facing former quarterback Joe Flacco, who now leads Cleveland's offense.