Shedeur Sanders drafted by Cleveland Browns after fifth-round slide

Shedeur Sanders, once projected as a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, unexpectedly fell to the fifth round before being selected by the Cleveland Browns at No. 144 overall. Analysts and insiders suggest his draft slide was due to concerns about his fit as a backup quarterback, given his history as a star and starter, as well as mixed reviews from team evaluators on his skills and system experience. The dramatic drop garnered public attention, including a Truth Social post from Donald Trump urging teams to draft Sanders, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt later jokingly implying that Trump's statement influenced the selection. Despite the disappointment, former NFL quarterbacks Tony Romo and Brett Favre offered Sanders advice, emphasizing that draft position is less important than taking advantage of the opportunity and proving oneself in the league. Sanders himself acknowledged he could have handled aspects of the draft process differently but is now focused on his future with the Browns. The episode highlights both the unpredictability of the NFL draft and the external pressures and commentary that can surround high-profile prospects.