Shedeur Sanders is at the heart of a quarterback battle brewing in Cleveland, where new Browns coach Todd Monken is reshaping the team's offensive dynamics. Sanders, a fifth-round pick in 2025, has his share of supporters, but the road to the starting position is anything but guaranteed.
Chris Broussard, a prominent voice on Fox Sports' "First Things First," has been a staunch advocate for Sanders. Despite his support, Broussard emphasizes that Sanders must earn his place as the team's starting quarterback. "He hasn't earned the right to feel any way other than 'I have to compete,'" Broussard stated, highlighting the competitive atmosphere Sanders faces with potential rivals like Malik Willis, Ty Simpson, and Dylan Gabriel, not to mention Deshaun Watson.
Sanders' rookie season was a mixed bag. He faced relentless defensive pressure, leading the league with a staggering 52.4% pressure rate among quarterbacks with over seven starts. Despite these challenges, he managed to throw for 1,400 yards, though his 10 interceptions to 7 touchdowns and a 3-4 record reflect the uphill battle he faced.
Browns GM Andrew Berry weighed in on Sanders' progress at the NFL scouting combine. Berry acknowledged Sanders' growth but stressed the need for better ball security and a deeper understanding of Monken's system. With Deshaun Watson returning from injury and Dillon Gabriel entering his second year, Sanders will need to step up if he hopes to secure a starting role.
As the Browns hold the No. 6 pick in the upcoming draft, the quarterback landscape in Cleveland is set for an intriguing shake-up. Sanders has the opportunity, but the competition is fierce, and the stakes are high.