Cleveland Browns Compete Among Five Quarterbacks Including Shedeur Sanders

Shedeur Sanders, drafted in the fifth round by the Cleveland Browns, enters a highly competitive quarterback room featuring Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and injured starter Deshaun Watson. While Sanders impressed during rookie minicamp and displayed potential, analysts note his true evaluation will come during preseason games with pads on, where live game situations test a quarterback's readiness. The Browns currently have no plans to trade any quarterbacks but face a logjam and will give each QB reps during OTAs to assess their value, with roster decisions looming as the season approaches. Despite the crowded depth chart, NFL insiders predict Sanders will see playing time during the 2025 season, given the Browns' recent history of rotating quarterbacks due to injuries and performance. Sanders’ transition to the NFL also involves rediscovering joy in the game after a stressful pre-draft process, while his development will be closely watched by his father, Deion Sanders, adding another layer of interest. Ultimately, Sanders must outperform veteran quarterbacks in meaningful preseason action to solidify his role and potentially earn starting opportunities.