Shedeur Sanders’ future position in the Cleveland Browns team is currently a hot topic in various NFL discussion forums. Sanders being a talented quarterback could be an amazing starter for any team, including the Browns. However, with the Browns, Sanders might not have earned the coveted QB1 position yet according to Mark Schlereth, former NFL player turned sportscaster.
Sanders was selected by the Cleveland Browns as the 144th pick in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL draft. However, Sanders has been the center point of numerous controversies and criticisms, mainly regarding his attitude. Another point of contention that has NFL coaches cynical of Sanders is his father, Deion’s influence on his playing style and also perhaps the team management.
Schlereth: Sanders Needs an Unprecedented Offseason to Start Week 1
Three-time Super Bowl champion Mark Schlereth weighed in on Sanders’ prospects during FS1’s “Breakfast Ball.” He emphasized the challenges Sanders faces in overtaking more experienced quarterbacks
“I’m not gonna say he will start eventually, but Joe Flacco. Not only has Joe Flacco had that experience, he knows this offense.” Mark Schlereth said on ‘Breakfast Ball’ on Fox Sports.
Co-host Craig Carton echoed this sentiment, highlighting the Browns’ prior selection of Dillon Gabriel in the third round as a factor complicating Sanders’ path to the starting role.
“He ain’t starting week 1. He would have to have the greatest summer of any quarterback in history for (Kevin) Stefanski to put his career on the line,” Craig Carton, co-host, said about Shedeur in the Cleveland Browns.
A Crowded Quarterback Room and High Expectations
The Browns’ quarterback depth chart presents a formidable challenge for Sanders. With Deshaun Watson recovering from an Achilles injury, the team also has Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel competing for the starting position. His late-round selection adds to the uphill battle he faces in securing significant playing time.
Despite these obstacles, his college performance showcases his potential. At Colorado, he threw for over 4,100 yards and 37 touchdowns in his senior year, earning accolades such as the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award and Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year. Analysts note his accuracy and poise as strengths that could translate well to the NFL.
However, concerns about his intermediate passing volume and pocket awareness contributed to his draft slide. Critics argue that Sanders must refine these aspects of his game to succeed at the professional level.
In the face of skepticism, he remains focused on proving his worth. His determination and work ethic will be crucial as he navigates the competitive landscape of the NFL and strives to earn a starting role with the Browns.
