Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders is poised for a significant leap in his second NFL season. After a rookie year where he played in eight games, Sanders completed 56.6% of his passes, racking up 1,400 yards with seven touchdowns and seven interceptions.
Despite only starting seven games, he faced immense pressure, getting sacked 23 times in Kevin Stefanski’s offense. Reflecting on his first season, Sanders said, “I think I did what I was able to do, and I definitely grew from a lot of things, and I got experience now.
Confidence-wise, I’m there. But like, that’s not in my hands.”
While the Browns haven't confirmed Sanders as the starter for the upcoming season, their recent moves in free agency suggest a commitment to bolstering his protection. General Manager Andrew Berry has made significant additions to the offensive line, signing guards Zion Johnson and Elgton Jenkins to lucrative deals and acquiring tackle Tytus Howard from the Houston Texans for a fifth-round pick. These strategic moves have fans buzzing with optimism about Sanders’ potential as the Week 1 starter.
Fans have expressed their excitement, noting the improved offensive line could provide Sanders with a much-needed clean pocket. Comments from fans include praise for the Browns’ efforts to enhance their protection for Sanders and optimism about the team’s direction in solidifying the offensive line.
JW Johnson, a partner with Haslam Sports Group, highlighted that the Browns will have an open quarterback competition this offseason. Deshaun Watson, recovering from a significant injury, is also in the mix, making for an intriguing battle under new head coach Todd Monken.
Johnson emphasized, “Nobody is getting handed the keys to the car today. They’re going to come in and compete.”
For Sanders, the path to becoming Cleveland’s long-term starter involves outperforming his competition this summer. With a reinforced offensive line and an open competition, the stage is set for Sanders to prove his worth and potentially lead the Browns into a new era.