Will Shedeur Sanders Really Refuse to Suit Up for the Cleveland Browns?

By Jason Bolton March 26, 2025 16:17

The hype over Shedeur Sanders, arguably the most hyped quarterback prospect in years, has taken an unexpected turn. Sanders, who is projected to be drafted third overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, is said to be willing to sit out the Cleveland Browns if they select him. This has generated controversy on the entire NFL landscape with fans and pundits questioning whether this is an arrogant move or a shrewd career decision.

A Legacy of Excellence

Shedeur Sanders enters the draft as one of the most prolific quarterbacks in college football history. During his time in college, he completed 70.1% of the time for 14,353 yards and 134 touchdowns with only 27 interceptions. In his final season at Colorado, he threw for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns, and he was honored with the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and the prestigious Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award. His poise and precision on the field have drawn comparisons to NFL greats, but by possibly spurning Cleveland, he is raising questions about his priorities.

The Cleveland Conundrum

The Cleveland Browns have the second pick in this year's draft and have expressed a known interest in Sanders. Cleveland's history as a difficult place for quarterbacks is also well known, though. The most recent quarterback to vent about the difficulties of playing in Cleveland is Johnny Manziel, who issued a blunt disclaimer: "Cleveland can be more of a curse than a blessing." Manziel's short and troubled stint with the Browns is a lesson for young quarterbacks entering volatile franchises.

Pat McAfee has his say about the issue through his show when he mentioned that "if Shedeur goes to Cleveland, he's gonna have unbelievable pressure trying to rebuild a franchise that has been tanking for generations. It ain't about skill-it's whether the team is going to let him." A remark by McAfee reminds of another familiar scenario-the Browns failing to provide stability to their quarterbacks.
A Good Move?

Sanders' self-reported unwillingness to play for Cleveland may be founded on more than mere organizational upheaval. Experts claim that Sanders is keenly aware of his marketability and career trajectory. Ryan Clark at ESPN recently noted, "Shedeur isn't just Deion Sanders' son—he's a brand. He knows that where he plays will determine his legacy."

This mindset is consistent with Sanders' previous behavior of making big-time moves. His relocation to Colorado in 2023 from Jackson State was widely regarded as a move made with a purpose to get more visibility on his own with his father's direction. The transfer paid off in spades, and Sanders became one of the most talked-about college football players.

What's Next?

The Browns do have alternatives other than Sanders, including taking a different quarterback or other holes like edge rusher or wide receiver. Sanders, meanwhile, could have an "Eli Manning," infamously refusing to play for the San Diego Chargers in 2004 and then being traded to the New York Giants—a deal that yielded two Super Bowl titles.

All eyes, for now, are on April's draft. Where Sanders ends up in Cleveland or if he strong-arms a trade will not only decide his fate but become an NFL memory for the ages. One thing is certain: Shedeur Sanders won't wager against himself—and that confidence might drive him to superstardom.