Ravens Planned Shedeur Sanders Draft, QB Refused, Browns Selected

Shedeur Sanders, a quarterback from Colorado, was nearly selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, but he communicated to the Ravens that he did not want to join a team where he would be a backup to Lamar Jackson, a two-time MVP. The Ravens, respecting his wishes and following a philosophy of 'volunteers, not hostages,' chose to draft offensive lineman Carson Vinson instead. Three picks later, the Cleveland Browns traded up to select Sanders, who is currently the third-string quarterback behind Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel. Sanders' decision was notable as he preferred a team where he could compete for a starting role rather than being a backup, influencing the Ravens' draft strategy. The Browns and Ravens are set to face off in Week 2 of the 2025 NFL season, with both teams eager to avoid an 0-2 start. Sanders’ presence adds an intriguing subplot to the matchup, given the pre-draft scenario and his current role in Cleveland.