Shedeur Sanders, the Cleveland Browns’ newly drafted quarterback, is approaching his NFL career with a mindset that defies his fifth-round draft status. Despite being projected by many as a potential second-best quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders experienced a significant slide, eventually landing with the Browns. Instead of being discouraged by the perceived slight, Sanders is embracing the opportunity and conducting himself as though he is a legitimate contender for the starting quarterback position.
At the Browns’ rookie minicamp, Sanders addressed the media with a palpable sense of self-belief, stating, "My job here isn’t to prove people wrong. I prove myself right. I fully have self-belief." This statement encapsulates Sanders’ approach, focusing on personal growth and maximizing his potential rather than dwelling on external expectations or perceived doubts.
The Browns’ quarterback situation heading into the 2025 season is undeniably complex. The team selected Dillon Gabriel in the third round and then traded up to acquire Sanders in the fifth, adding to a quarterback room that already includes veteran Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Deshaun Watson. Watson, who was expected to be the Browns’ franchise quarterback, is projected to miss the entire 2025 season due to an Achilles injury, leaving the door open for other quarterbacks to compete for the starting role.
Sanders acknowledges the reality of his draft position but emphasizes that it is irrelevant now that he is in Cleveland. "I was a late-round draft pick, but we’re here now. None of that stuff matters," he said. "I’m just excited to be here and ready to work." This proactive attitude is crucial for Sanders, who faces an uphill battle to climb the depth chart and prove his worth.
Despite the presence of multiple quarterbacks on the roster, the Browns’ quarterback depth chart can be described as relatively weak, especially with Watson’s injury. Flacco, while capable, is a veteran who may not be a long-term solution. Pickett, acquired in the offseason, has yet to establish himself as a reliable starter in the NFL. Gabriel, as a third-round pick, will likely be given opportunities to develop, but his potential remains uncertain.
This situation presents a unique opportunity for Sanders to make a significant impact. If he can demonstrate his skills and leadership during training camp and preseason, he could potentially win the starting job in his rookie year. The competition will be fierce, but Sanders seems prepared to embrace the challenge.
When asked about the quarterback competition, Sanders emphasized his focus on self-improvement. "I just feel like, in life, in everything, it’s just me versus me," he said. "I can’t control any other decision besides that. I just try to be my best self at all times." This mindset is essential for navigating the pressures of the NFL and remaining resilient in the face of adversity.
While reports from rookie minicamp indicate that Gabriel took the first reps over Sanders, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski cautioned against drawing any conclusions at this early stage. "I wouldn’t look into, really, anything," Stefanski said. "I think you’ll see the whole weekend, going through the spring, we don’t pay too close attention to who’s in there first." This suggests that the Browns are giving all of their quarterbacks a fair opportunity to showcase their abilities and that the starting job is still up for grabs.
The Browns’ history at the quarterback position is well-documented and often cited as a major factor in their lack of sustained success. Since 1999, the Browns have started 40 different quarterbacks, the most in the NFL during that span. This constant turnover at the most important position in football has made it nearly impossible for the franchise to build consistency and compete at a high level.
As a result, the Browns have only finished four seasons above .500 since 1999, a stark reminder of the importance of stability at quarterback. The team’s struggles highlight the urgent need to find a long-term solution under center, and Sanders could potentially be that solution.
The magnitude of Sanders’ opportunity is not lost on him, particularly given the advice he received from legendary quarterback Tom Brady. Brady, a sixth-round pick who went on to win seven Super Bowls, reached out to Sanders and offered words of encouragement.
"Use it as motivation," Brady advised Sanders. "You’re gonna get your chances. Go take advantage of it." This message resonated deeply with Sanders, who understands the importance of seizing every opportunity and proving his doubters wrong.
If Sanders adheres to Brady’s advice and performs well throughout the offseason, he has a genuine chance to end the Browns’ quarterback carousel and bring much-needed stability to the position. From initial impressions, Sanders appears to be off to a promising start.
Sanders’ combination of talent, self-belief, and unwavering work ethic could make him a valuable asset for the Browns. While the road to becoming a starting quarterback is challenging, Sanders possesses the necessary qualities to succeed. His journey in Cleveland will be closely watched, and his ability to rise above his draft status and lead the Browns could redefine his career and the franchise’s future.
