The Cleveland Browns' quest for a franchise quarterback has been a saga spanning over two decades. With a revolving door of starters, the hope is that Shedeur Sanders might finally be the answer. While the Browns faithful are optimistic about Sanders' potential leap in his second year, history in Northeast Ohio suggests such transformations are rare.
In a recent ESPN ranking of the top 100 college quarterbacks of the 2000s, a staggering 14 players have donned the Cleveland helmet at some point in their NFL journeys. It’s a testament to the Browns’ persistent search for a game-changer.
Here's a look at those quarterbacks:
- No. 88 Bailey Zappe (2024-2026): Signed as a free agent
- No. 87 Shedeur Sanders (2025-present): Drafted
- No. 80 Brandon Weeden (2012-2013): Drafted
- No. 60 Kenny Pickett (2025): Acquired via trade
- No. 53 Brady Quinn (2007-2009): Drafted
- No. 43 Ken Dorsey (2006-2008): Acquired via trade
- No. 28 Case Keenum (2020-2021): Signed as a free agent
- No. 25 Dillon Gabriel (2025-present): Drafted
- No. 17 Jameis Winston (2024-2025): Signed as a free agent
- No. 13 Johnny Manziel (2014-2015): Drafted
- No. 12 Colt McCoy (2010-2012): Drafted
- No. 10 Robert Griffin III (2016-2017): Signed as a free agent
- No. 6 Deshaun Watson (2022-present): Acquired via trade
- No. 1 Baker Mayfield (2018-2021): Drafted
The Browns’ struggle to find a long-term solution at quarterback is evident, with most of these players unable to secure a spot for more than a couple of seasons. Yet, there's a silver lining: all three quarterbacks currently on the roster have made this prestigious list.
As the Browns look to the future, there’s cautious optimism that Todd Monken and his coaching staff can unlock Sanders' potential. Meanwhile, the fans’ mixed feelings about Deshaun Watson linger, adding another layer to the Browns' ongoing quarterback narrative.