NFL Had Two Words for Shedeur Sanders in Cleveland Browns Jersey

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dean Koutouratsas | Last updated Jul 11, 2025 5:36 PM ET

The NFL is showing appreciation for Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders.

The 23-year-old is the Colorado Buffaloes' former starting quarterback. As a senior, he led the school to a 9-4 season. He threw for 4,134 yards, 37 touchdowns and 10 interceptions on a 74.0% completion percentage.

Sanders was expected to be selected in the first round of April's NFL draft, but that didn’t happen. Coach Prime’s son didn’t receive a phone call from any of the 32 NFL franchises until Day 3, when the Browns drafted him with the 144th overall pick in the fifth round.

He was then added into their quarterback room to compete for the starting job alongside veteran Joe Flacco, fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel and journeyman Kenny Pickett. Meanwhile, Cleveland’s starter from last season, Deshaun Watson, is expected to be sidelined for the entire season with a ruptured Achilles tendon.

Sanders has been competing well with Gabriel as both rookies are looking to move up the depth chart before the start of training camp. Furthermore, the NFL showed its appreciation for Sanders as he was dressed in the Browns home uniform on Friday.

“Cleveland Shedeur ,” the league wrote on its X account.

Cleveland Shedeur pic.twitter.com/O6ZaABKlwd
— NFL (@NFL) July 11, 2025

However, Sanders could have a long road ahead of him. Some fans and analysts have been debating whether he should become the backup over Gabriel to eventually succeed Flacco for the starting job.

Sanders has the advantage to some because of his strength and athleticism, while Gabriel is considered quicker and craftier with the ball in his hand. The competition will include in training camp, which starts later this month.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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