
As the Cleveland Browns navigate their quarterback situation, concern is emerging surrounding NFL rookie Shedeur Sanders and the potential consequences of moving on from him. After the trade of veteran Joe Flacco, discussions about his future with the franchise have intensified.
Some analysts suggest the team may hesitate to release him due to fears of repeating past mistakes with former quarterback Baker Mayfield. Sanders, drafted in the fifth round, has not yet seen significant playing time, leading to speculation about his viability as a quarterback.
Cleveland has faced criticism for its decision-making at the position, particularly after trading away Flacco and promoting rookie Dillon Gabriel to starter. This has raised questions about whether keeping Sanders is a prudent choice or merely a safeguard against potential regret.
Insider Jason Lloyd has pointed out that the Browns’ reluctance to part with Sanders stems from the fear he could develop into a successful player elsewhere, much like Mayfield did after leaving Cleveland. This concern illustrates the team’s struggle to find stability at the quarterback position, a situation that has plagued the franchise for years. Cleveland may be wary of releasing Sanders only to watch him thrive with another organization.
Despite being inactive this season, Sanders has maintained a positive attitude, expressing gratitude for his role and the opportunity to learn. He understands that his journey is still unfolding, and the team’s coaching staff is weighing their options carefully. The uncertainty surrounding his position reflects the broader challenges Cleveland faces as the team attempts to rebuild its quarterback depth.
Just recently, Cleveland’s concern about trading Sanders was revealed. This is detailed more in an article by Andrew Peters for Bleacher Report.
With fifth-round draft pick Shedeur Sanders still seemingly nowhere close to taking over as the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback, it’s fair to wonder if the team will eventually decide to part ways with him.
The Athletic’s Jason Lloyd suggested on the Scoop City podcast that the Browns might be hesitant to release Sanders because of what happened with their former quarterback Baker Mayfield, who went on to shine after leaving Cleveland.
“I think it’s a fear of that more so than the Deshaun (Watson) debacle, and it is a total debacle at this point,” Lloyd said (34:55 mark). “I think it’s just a fear of, could this guy develop elsewhere and then three years from now we’re having the exact same conversation we are with Baker.”
As the trade deadline approaches, speculation continues about Sanders’ future with the team. If the Browns choose to promote Bailey Zappe instead, they could decide to release Sanders, but doing so carries risks. The lingering fear of losing a potential asset may compel Cleveland to keep Sanders on the roster, despite the lack of immediate playing opportunities.
Cleveland’s situation with Shedeur Sanders highlights the complexities of managing quarterback talent in the league. The team’s concerns about repeating past mistakes with players like Mayfield may ultimately impact their decision-making as they seek a stable future at the position.
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