From Top Prospect to Underdog: Can Shedeur Sanders Prove NFL Scouts Wrong in Cleveland?

By Jason Bolton June 13, 2025 11:54

Shedeur Sanders’ journey from a highly touted college quarterback to a fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft has been one of the most talked-about stories of the offseason. Once projected as a first-round talent, Sanders slid to the 144th overall selection before the Cleveland Browns scooped him up late on Day 3. This unexpected fall has cast him as an underdog, but Sanders is determined to prove the doubters wrong as he competes for the Browns’ starting quarterback job.

The Browns’ quarterback room is crowded and competitive. Alongside Sanders are Dillon Gabriel, a third-round pick who has received more first-team reps in offseason workouts, and veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett. While Gabriel currently appears slightly ahead on the depth chart, many insiders view Sanders as the team’s quarterback of the future. Pro Football Focus analyst Thomas Valentine noted, “Draft order notwithstanding, he is the most talented quarterback on the roster. He has reportedly impressed in OTAs, and while there will be some noise regarding how he found his way to the team, his talent is undeniable”.

Sanders’ draft slide was surprising given his college production and pedigree. At Colorado, he earned an elite 91.0 PFF overall grade last season, showcasing his accuracy, decision-making, and leadership. However, concerns about his ability to handle NFL pressure lingered. Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot highlighted a key issue: “At Colorado, he took too many sacks an FBS-high 94 in two seasons and drifted back too often when the ball should’ve been thrown to a target or tossed away”. This perceived flaw likely contributed to teams passing on him earlier.

Despite the skepticism, Sanders has approached his rookie offseason with a fierce work ethic. Videos from Browns minicamp show him putting in extra throwing drills after practice, a testament to his commitment to improvement. Sanders himself remains unfazed by his draft position. “I don’t have any excuses. My production whenever I get the opportunity to play is what ultimately counts,” he said, emphasizing a results-driven mindset.

The Browns’ coaching staff has kept the quarterback competition wide open. Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees remarked, “We have good guys that push each other, and by the time September rolls around, we’ll be ready to go”. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has not committed to a starter, signaling that performance in training camp and preseason will heavily influence the decision.

Shedeur’s confidence and talent have already begun shifting expectations. While Dillon Gabriel has received more first-team reps in OTAs, Sanders’ accuracy and poise during drills have drawn praise. Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport described Sanders as one of the “biggest losers” of OTAs due to his limited reps compared to Gabriel but acknowledged the complexity of the Browns’ quarterback situation.

Sanders’ unique background as the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders adds intrigue but also pressure. Some speculate that concerns about his attitude and pre-draft interviews contributed to his draft slide. However, recent reports highlight his professionalism and dedication, suggesting a maturation that could serve him well in the NFL.

Shedeur Sanders’ path from top prospect to underdog is a compelling NFL story in 2025. While scouts questioned his readiness, Sanders has embraced the challenge in Cleveland, working tirelessly to earn the starting role amid stiff competition. If he can translate his college success into NFL production, Sanders has the talent and mindset to prove the doubters wrong and become the Browns’ quarterback of the future. The coming months will be critical in determining whether this underdog can rise to the occasion and rewrite his narrative.