Browns Insider Defends Team’s Handling of Shedeur Sanders

The Cleveland Browns have confirmed that Shedeur Sanders is currently their fourth-choice quarterback, igniting discussions among fans and analysts regarding the team’s treatment of the fifth-round draft pick. Some critics have accused the Browns of “sabotaging” Sanders’ chances of securing the starting position. In a recent article published by Jason Lloyd, an insider at *The Athletic*, he addressed these allegations head-on, stating, “There is no conspiracy theory against Shedeur Sanders. The Cleveland Browns are not out to ruin his career or set him up to fail.”

Lloyd emphasized that the Browns are simply adhering to the standard protocol for a fifth-round rookie. This perspective aligns with the team’s depth chart placement, which has seen fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel ranked above Sanders since the voluntary offseason workouts. Despite being viewed by many NFL analysts as a potential first-round talent, Sanders’ draft process reportedly raised concerns for some teams, impacting his selection.

Shedeur Sanders is set to start for the Browns in their preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on August 25, 2025. His opportunity arises due to injuries affecting Gabriel and presumed backup Kenny Pickett, who are both dealing with hamstring issues.

Lloyd further pointed out that the notion of the Browns undermining Sanders is unfounded. He noted, “The Browns also very clearly told you they didn’t believe Sanders was worthy of being a franchise quarterback when they passed on him with the second pick in the draft. And then the fifth pick. And then twice more in the second round, twice in the third and once in the fourth before finally coming back up in the fifth to take him.” This comment highlights the team’s perspective on Sanders’ readiness to lead.

Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has expressed a desire to see both rookie quarterbacks get meaningful playing time if the team struggles in the latter part of the season. Nonetheless, as of August 24, the FanDuel Sportsbook lists veteran Joe Flacco as a strong favorite at -265 to start the Browns’ first regular-season game against the Cincinnati Bengals on September 7, while Sanders sits at +2500 odds.

This betting line suggests that head coach Kevin Stefanski is unlikely to rush into playing Sanders, regardless of public sentiment or media scrutiny surrounding his performance. As the Browns move forward, they appear committed to their evaluation process, treating Sanders as a developing player rather than a ready-made starter.

In summary, while the narrative surrounding Shedeur Sanders has sparked significant debate, the Cleveland Browns maintain a methodical approach to his development and placement within the team’s quarterback hierarchy.