Shedeur Sanders Competes for Browns Starting QB Job Amid Draft Slide

Shedeur Sanders, once projected as a first-round pick, unexpectedly fell to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft before joining the Cleveland Browns. Despite the draft slide, Sanders has shown promise both on and off the field, impressing teammates with his fun and uplifting personality during offseason practices and training camp, which has helped ease tensions in the locker room. His mother, Pilar Sanders, has been vocal in defending him against media criticism, highlighting perceived disparities in how players are treated based on legacy and background, and proudly supporting his journey with the Browns. The NFL has acknowledged Sanders' potential by featuring him in the Browns' uniform with the caption "Cleveland Shedeur 🔥" on social media, signaling league-wide recognition. Sanders is competing for the Browns' starting quarterback position alongside veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, as well as rookie Dillon Gabriel, with the team seeking a long-term solution after Deshaun Watson's season-ending injury. While opinions differ on who will ultimately back up Flacco, Sanders' strength and athleticism give him a notable edge in the competition.