Shedeur Sanders Leads Cleveland Browns QB Competition Amid Watson Injury

Shedeur Sanders, the Cleveland Browns' fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, is rapidly making a name for himself in a crowded quarterback competition. Despite initially being the fourth-string quarterback behind Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel, Sanders has impressed coaches and observers with his precision and poise during the Browns' OTAs and minicamp, completing 7 of 9 passes for three touchdowns in one session. His performances have drawn comparisons to elite quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, with some sources believing he could potentially start Week 1 if he maintains this level of play. Sanders has praised the Browns' quarterback room for its supportive atmosphere and the opportunity to learn from experienced players like Flacco and Watson. While the competition remains open, early reports suggest Sanders might be climbing the depth chart quickly, challenging presumptions based on his draft position and possibly affecting Kenny Pickett's standing. Overall, Sanders' confidence and efficiency have injected fresh optimism into a Browns quarterback situation that struggled the previous season.