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Shedeur Sanders’ rocky start in the NFL
Shedeur Sanders, the talented quarterback who made headlines during his college career, is now facing a challenging start in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns. Drafted in the fifth round as the 144th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders’ journey has been anything but smooth.
The Browns’ quarterback situation is already complicated, and analysts are expressing concerns about the environment Sanders is stepping into.
The Browns’ quarterback conundrum
According to former NFL player Robert Griffin III, the Browns’ quarterback situation is “set up for dysfunction.” With a staggering $230 million tied up in Deshaun Watson’s contract, the team is facing significant financial constraints that could hinder their performance for the next two seasons.
The Browns have brought in four quarterbacks this offseason, and despite being a fifth-round pick, Sanders has quickly become a fan favorite, boasting the top-selling jersey among all rookies. This popularity highlights the immense pressure on him to perform, especially with the likes of Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, and Dillon Gabriel also vying for the starting position.
High expectations and potential pitfalls
Griffin emphasizes that Sanders is in a precarious position, where the expectations are sky-high, and the support system may not be robust enough to ensure his success. “They set him up to fail,” Griffin remarked, pointing out that Sanders, despite being a standout player at Colorado, is now the fourth quarterback on the roster, likely to receive the least amount of playing time.
This situation raises questions about his development and future in the league.
Sanders’ impressive college career, where he was a second-team All-American, has not shielded him from the scrutiny that comes with being a rookie in the NFL.
His unexpected drop in the draft has left many puzzled, particularly after reports surfaced about his less-than-stellar interview with the New York Giants. As he navigates this challenging landscape, the support from fans and teammates will be crucial in helping him find his footing in the league.
Looking ahead: Can Sanders thrive?
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Shedeur Sanders to see if he can rise to the occasion. The combination of high expectations, a tumultuous quarterback room, and the weight of a franchise’s hopes on his shoulders makes for a compelling narrative. Will he sink or swim in his rookie season? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the journey ahead will be anything but ordinary.
