Cleveland, Ohio – Shedeur Sanders’ rookie journey with the Cleveland Browns is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about stories of the 2025 NFL preseason. From draft-day drama to preseason struggles, trade rumors, and even heartfelt community service, Sanders is proving he’s more than just a quarterback — he’s a story worth following.
Shedeur Sanders’ Roster Fate with the Browns
As final NFL roster cuts loom, the Browns are set to carry four quarterbacks: Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel. This is unusual in today’s NFL, but GM Andrew Berry believes the depth chart is an advantage, not a problem.
Despite Sanders’ shaky preseason performance – completing just 3-of-6 passes for 14 yards and a costly fumble – Cleveland appears committed to keeping him on the team. Flacco has been confirmed as the Week 1 starter, while the remaining depth order is still up for grabs.
From an organizational perspective, the Browns are gambling on potential. Sanders may not be ready to start, but his long-term upside could justify holding onto him.
Trade Rumors: Is Sanders “Expendable”?
Not everyone is convinced Sanders will stay in Cleveland long-term. With four quarterbacks on the roster, some analysts suggest Sanders could be used as trade bait.
The idea is simple: the Browns could capitalize on Sanders’ big name and potential upside while securing depth at another position. But here’s the catch – trading him now would be selling low. His preseason struggles haven’t boosted his value, and Cleveland may prefer to give him time rather than rush into a deal.
My take? A midseason trade isn’t impossible, especially if the Browns face roster pressure or injuries elsewhere. But for now, Sanders is safe.
The Preseason Benching Drama
One of the most emotional moments came in Cleveland’s preseason finale against the Rams. Sanders was expected to lead a two-minute drill but was unexpectedly pulled.
“I was on the bike powering up for that drive, and then I saw someone else go in,” Sanders said. “I didn’t even know I was out.”
This reaction reveals his competitive edge – he wants to be “that alpha.” While some may see this as frustration, it’s also a sign of leadership. For a young quarterback, that hunger to stay on the field could be exactly what drives his development.
Off the Field: Sanders’ Cleveland Community Work
While questions swirl around his on-field play, Sanders is winning respect off the field. After a devastating fire in Cleveland’s Kinsman neighborhood, he organized an event offering food, sneakers, clothing, and fun activities for displaced families.
Partnering with Gatorade and Overtime, Sanders showed he’s not just about football – he’s about people. For a rookie to step into a new city and immediately give back speaks volumes about his character. In fact, many Browns fans believe this side of Sanders could make him a long-term favorite, regardless of his playing time.
Draft Controversy Still Lingers
The NFL world hasn’t forgotten the shocking moment when Sanders fell all the way to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson recently fueled speculation by claiming the league discouraged teams from drafting Sanders.
While many dismiss this as conspiracy talk, the truth is clear – Sanders’ slide was unusual given his college resume and star power. Whether it was concerns about his fit, attitude, or system, Sanders is now motivated to prove doubters wrong.
Final Thoughts: Sanders’ Future with the Browns
Shedeur Sanders is entering the NFL with pressure from all angles: draft controversy, roster competition, trade speculation, and media attention. Yet, through all of it, he’s showing flashes of toughness, leadership, and community impact.
For the Browns, this is a long-term investment. Sanders may not start in 2025, but if he develops behind Flacco and Pickett, Cleveland could have a future franchise QB waiting in the wings.
