Shedeur Sanders Faces Jersey Setback with Browns

Shedeur Sanders, once expected to be a top-10 NFL Draft pick, slid to the fifth round where the Cleveland Browns selected him, and he will not be allowed to wear his preferred No. 2 jersey, as it is currently assigned to veteran receiver DeAndre Carter. This decision has sparked backlash from fans and is seen by some as a sign of disrespect, especially since Sanders’ brand and college identity are tied to the No. 2. Sanders now faces stiff competition in a crowded Browns quarterback room that includes Dillon Gabriel, Joe Flacco, and Kenny Pickett, with no clear starter for the 2025 season amid Deshaun Watson’s continuing injury struggles. As Cleveland rarely keeps four quarterbacks, Sanders must immediately impress to secure a place on the 53-man roster. The Browns’ choice to draft another quarterback and Sanders’ draft slide have fueled speculation that the team may look beyond him for their future, possibly targeting prospects like Arch Manning in upcoming drafts. Sanders’ path to both a roster spot and his preferred number remains uncertain as the preseason approaches.