Cleveland Browns Rookie Jersey Numbers Revealed; Shedeur Sanders to Don No. 12
The Cleveland Browns have officially announced the jersey numbers for their incoming rookie class and newly acquired free agents, setting the stage for the upcoming NFL season. Among the notable reveals, quarterback Shedeur Sanders, the highly touted prospect from Colorado, will be sporting the No. 12 jersey. This marks a change from his familiar No. 2, which he donned during his collegiate career.
The reason for the alteration stems from the Browns’ recent acquisition of veteran wide receiver DeAndre Carter in free agency. Carter, a seasoned player with a proven track record, has claimed the No. 2 jersey for himself, necessitating a change for the rookie quarterback.
Sanders’ arrival in Cleveland was preceded by considerable buzz, particularly given his unexpected slide in the NFL Draft. Despite his undeniable talent and potential, he was eventually selected by the Browns with the 144th overall pick in the fifth round. This unprecedented fall fueled speculation and debate among analysts and fans alike, adding an extra layer of intrigue to his transition into the professional ranks.
Joining Sanders in the rookie ranks is defensive lineman Mason Graham, the Browns’ first-round pick. Graham will proudly wear the No. 94 jersey as he embarks on his NFL journey. Another quarterback addition, Dillon Gabriel, will begin his Browns tenure sporting the No. 5 jersey.
It’s worth noting that the Browns have emphasized the possibility of further adjustments to jersey numbers before the official start of the 2025 season. This caveat leaves room for potential changes, adding an element of suspense as players continue to settle into their roles within the team.
The announcement of Sanders’ jersey number has sparked considerable discussion among Browns fans, eager to see how he will adapt to his new surroundings. The quarterback competition in Cleveland is expected to be fierce, with Sanders facing established veterans and fellow newcomers in his pursuit of a prominent role on the team.
The Browns’ quarterback situation is currently in a state of flux, with uncertainty surrounding the availability of their presumed starter, Deshaun Watson. Watson, who was acquired by the Browns in a blockbuster trade, suffered a re-rupture of his Achilles tendon in January, following surgery on the same tendon in October 2024. His status for the upcoming season remains in doubt, leaving the door open for other quarterbacks to step up and compete for the starting job.
Adding to the complexity of the quarterback room, the Browns made several strategic moves during the offseason. They acquired veteran quarterback Kenny Pickett in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles and signed seasoned signal-caller Joe Flacco to a one-year contract prior to the NFL Draft. These additions, coupled with the arrival of rookies Gabriel and Sanders, have created a crowded quarterback room, making it difficult to predict who will ultimately emerge as the team’s Week 1 starter.
The presence of multiple quarterbacks vying for playing time sets the stage for an intense and closely watched competition during training camp and the preseason. Each quarterback brings a unique skill set and experience level to the table, making the decision-making process for the coaching staff all the more challenging.
Sanders, despite being a rookie, possesses a strong arm, impressive accuracy, and a natural ability to read defenses. His college career at Colorado showcased his potential as a dynamic playmaker, capable of making throws under pressure and leading his team to victory. However, he will face a significant step up in competition as he transitions to the NFL, where the speed of the game and the complexity of the defenses will demand a higher level of execution.
The Browns’ coaching staff will be tasked with evaluating each quarterback’s performance during practices and preseason games, assessing their ability to grasp the offensive system, make accurate reads, and lead the team effectively. The quarterback who demonstrates the best combination of talent, leadership, and decision-making will likely earn the opportunity to start for the Browns in Week 1.
The uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position has created a sense of anticipation among Browns fans, eager to see which player will emerge as the team’s leader under center. The competition is expected to be fierce and closely contested, with each quarterback vying to impress the coaching staff and earn the trust of his teammates.
As the Browns prepare for the upcoming season, the quarterback situation remains a central focus, with the potential to significantly impact the team’s success. The emergence of a reliable and effective quarterback will be crucial for the Browns to compete in a highly competitive AFC North division. The Browns will be looking for stability at the quarterback position, a role Shedeur Sanders hopes to fill.
