There is no doubt that Sanders’ journey in the NFL has been more complicated than he expected. In his mind, he envisioned arriving in the league as a star and becoming a starter immediately. It’s worth remembering that the former Colorado Buffaloes quarterback was projected as a first-round Draft pick, expected to be the second quarterback selected, only behind Cam Ward.
Shedeur Sanders brings joy at Palm Beach school as he shares a heartfelt moment with a young fan
However, on Draft day – when Sanders had a party prepared to celebrate his arrival in the NFL – life had a surprise in store. The quarterback was passed over in the early rounds. In the end, five quarterbacks were selected before his name was finally called in the fifth round, when the Cleveland Browns picked him with the 144th overall selection.
Interestingly, the Browns had already selected Dillon Gabriel in the third round and, prior to the Draft, signed Joe Flacco and acquired Kenny Pickett via trade. That meant Sanders arrived in Cleveland as the fourth quarterback on the depth chart – and he was treated that way. Initially overlooked, he gradually earned opportunities until he eventually became the Browns’ starter through Week 11 of the NFL season.
The Browns want to bring Jerry Jeudy back to form
It’s clear that Cleveland’s biggest issue is its offense, which is why Todd Monken, former offensive coordinator of the Baltimore Ravens, was brought in. The goal is to find stability at quarterback – possibly between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders – while also adding pieces that can make the unit competitive.
Before last season, there was significant confidence in Jerry Jeudy as the Browns’ No. 1 receiver after a strong 2024 campaign. However, this season he was one of the team’s biggest disappointments, totaling just 602 receiving yards and two touchdowns while averaging only 12 yards per catch. He became one of the most criticized players by fans and media.
Even so, the Browns still believe in him. According to Mary Kay Cabot, the team expects him to bounce back: “I know that they are very confident they are going to get the most out of Jerry Jeudy this year, and they really feel like he is going to bounce back and be rehabilitated in this new offense, and that he’s going to be okay,” the Browns insider stated.
If the organization truly maintains confidence in Jeudy, they may choose a different direction in the Draft. Fans are hoping the team selects standout Ohio State receiver Carnell Tate, but if the Browns remain optimistic about Jeudy, they could instead target an offensive lineman or perhaps a defensive player to further strengthen what is already one of the team’s brightest units – the defense.
