Browns’ Training Camp Signals Sanders May Not Be in Their Plans
When the Cleveland Browns picked Shedeur Sanders in the fifth round of the NFL Draft, fans hoped they had landed a future franchise quarterback. But that narrative may be unraveling fast.
Despite the hype surrounding Sanders, the Browns drafted Dillon Gabriel two rounds earlier, showing early signs of hesitation about Sanders’ long-term role. Now, recent updates from Zac Jackson of The Athletic suggest Cleveland’s coaching staff sees Sanders as little more than a developmental project for now.
“I feel zero urgency from the folks in charge to treat Sanders as anything but a talented, developmental-type prospect,” Jackson wrote. He added the Browns are “open to multiple scenarios” depending on August performances.
The selection order alone hinted that Cleveland wasn’t sold on Sanders being a centerpiece. While fans were eager to embrace him, the front office appears more calculated. Viewing him as a high-upside player who needs time rather than a plug-and-play talent. And as training camp unfolds, Sanders’ reps and positioning make that perception increasingly clear.
Veteran QBs Take Center Stage While Sanders Waits
According to Jackson, Joe Flacco has a 75% chance to start in Week 1, with Kenny Pickett next in line at 20% though injured. That leaves just a sliver of hope for any other candidate, Sanders included.
This doesn’t mean Sanders won’t see action this season, but it underscores how far he is from the top of the depth chart. The Browns are clearly prioritizing experience over potential as they look to make a playoff push. Sanders’ raw talent has yet to outweigh the team’s trust in proven veterans like Flacco and Pickett.
The writing seems to be on the wall: Sanders isn’t being groomed to start in 2025. In fact, with rumors swirling that Cleveland may pursue a new quarterback in the 2026 draft, his future with the team is increasingly uncertain.
Shedeur Sanders could still surprise everyone with a standout preseason. But right now, it feels like he’s on the outside looking in. Unless injuries or poor play shift the current QB landscape, Coach Kevin Stefanski may keep Sanders on ice, at least for this season.
Read More: Browns Could Cut Ties With Shedeur Sanders Before Training Camp Begins
