Michael Ciaglo-Imagn Images

Shedeur Sanders Browns Jersey Announced with Major Twist

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Anthony Goss | Last updated May 6, 2025 3:32 PM ET

Shedeur Sanders and the Cleveland Browns are finally past the craze of the NFL Draft. The Browns selected him in the fifth round, ending a slide that went into the third day of the event.

The Browns fielded some criticism to draft two quarterbacks while Sanders had speculation heaped onto him as to why he fell so significantly. Factor in the prank call scandal that lingered the week following his selection and it has been a load to handle for all involved.

But those are in the rearview and now Sanders can focus strictly on football, hoping to solidify himself on the Browns' depth chart this offseason. Starting the process, Cleveland has assigned him his jersey number.

Sanders will wear No. 12 this season, a number worn previously by Rodney McCleod in 2024. Fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel will wear No. 5 while Joe Flacco takes the No. 15 he had in his first Cleveland stint and Kenny Pickett will sport No. 8.

rookie jersey numbers dropped before GTA 6 ‼️

rooks will be rocking these throughout camp and are subject to change before the season
» https://t.co/48qDVEsG25 pic.twitter.com/SdxF318eNz
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) May 6, 2025

Sanders has worn No. 2, a significant figure that has befitted him since high school and factors into his brand imagery. Unfortunately, DeAndre Carter received that number after signing with the team as a free agent so it was unavailable to the rookie quarterback.

The No. 12 is a reversal of the No. 21 synonymous with his father Deion. For years, the No. 21 represented him on the field and is a central part of his own brand.

The Browns have said the numbers could change down the line but will remain the same through training camp. If that is the case, then Sanders has the chance to start this next chapter of his football with an interesting twist.

He has made it clear through his decision on new representation that he is not concerned with using his father's legacy to pave his way. But as he learns to shoulder that load himself, Deion's legacy will be a part of him.

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

More must-reads: