The Cleveland Browns recently wrapped up their OTAs, and next on the schedule is training camp, which begins near the end of July.
Until then, much of the discussion will center around the four healthy quarterbacks in Cleveland who are competing for a spot on the depth chart. Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett bring experience to the room, while Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders are the rookies.
One former NFL star — who was a thorn in the Browns’ side for years — recently revealed what a Cleveland Pro Bowler told him about rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
In a recent episode of Nightcap with Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson, the former Bengals wide receiver shared that Browns cornerback Denzel Ward had high praise for the rookie QB.
“I talked to Denzel Ward… I shouldn’t say his name. But anyway, I talked to ‘some people,’ and (Shedeur Sanders) looked different. There’s a difference when that young bull is out there spinning that ball, you hear me?” Johnson said.
When a former player like Johnson — who spent years competing against Cleveland — takes notice, it’s could be worth paying attention. Not only was he a star on the field, but he’s also insightful behind the mic. Ward is not telling him these things by accident. While Sanders mostly faced backups during OTAs, he still managed to impress.
Shedeur Sanders ➡️ Brenden Bates pic.twitter.com/4U4eGNIedS
— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) May 28, 2025
The Browns plan to give all four quarterbacks a legitimate chance to win the job. Even as a fifth-round pick, Sanders could emerge as the starter at some point this season if he earns it. With two first-round selections in next year’s draft, Cleveland would be in excellent shape if either of their rookie quarterbacks develops into a long-term solution.
Early signs suggest some of the Browns’ top players are excited about Sanders. While it’s just early buzz for now, it’s certainly something worth watching play out.
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