Cleveland Browns Develop Rookie QB Shedeur Sanders Amid Starting Spot Competition

Shedeur Sanders, the Cleveland Browns' 2025 fifth-round draft pick, is at the center of a competitive quarterback race as he vies for a starting role against veterans Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel. Although Sanders began offseason practices mostly with third- and fourth-string units, he has shown significant improvement and impressed analysts and former players, including Herm Edwards and Andrew Hawkins, who believe he has the potential to win the starting job if his preseason performance is strong. Despite this optimism, Maxx Crosby cautions that Sanders must earn the role amid tough competition, and Browns insiders emphasize a patient development approach for the rookie. The Browns have yet to release an official depth chart, and while Sanders remains a long shot to start Week 1, his upward trajectory and ability to grasp the offense keep him in the conversation. The Browns' quarterback room also includes injured Deshaun Watson, which may open opportunities later in the season. Overall, Sanders is viewed as a promising talent whose preseason showing will be pivotal in determining his role in the 2025 season.