Browns Add Shedeur Sanders in 2025 Draft
The Cleveland Browns selected quarterback Shedeur Sanders with the 144th pick in the 2025 draft, adding him as the fifth quarterback on their roster.
Anticipation for QB1 Position
This leads to an ongoing question: when will Sanders take over as the starting quarterback? This inquiry is expected to arise frequently in discussions with coaches, executives, and players until a decision is made.
Deshaun Watson’s Status
To assess the situation, it’s crucial to rule out Deshaun Watson, who is unlikely to play in 2025. He will start training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list due to two torn Achilles tendons. The Browns have a strong financial incentive to sideline him all season, given the millions they can reclaim from his insurance policy.
Competition Among Quarterbacks
The Browns are left with two veteran quarterbacks and two rookies, making it improbable for all four to survive the roster cuts from 90 to 53. Likely, they will keep one veteran along with both rookies.
Performance and Decision Making
The choice of starter will depend on performance throughout the offseason, training camp, and preseason. Just as Russell Wilson beat out veteran Matt Flynn in 2012 based on merit, a standout quarterback among the contenders might make the decision straightforward. However, if the competition is close, it will complicate matters.
Influence of Ownership
The Browns often claim that owner Jimmy Haslam doesn’t make football decisions, yet outside opinion suggests otherwise, especially given past choices like drafting Johnny Manziel. If the quarterback race is close, Haslam’s preferences will likely play a significant role in the decision-making process.
Pressure for Success
Amid the turmoil surrounding Watson’s contract, the Browns desperately need a win, particularly at quarterback. If Sanders succeeds, it could significantly counterbalance the Watson trade’s fallout. The organization aims to turn the narrative around, potentially leading to Sanders seeing the field earlier than expected, provided he proves himself and the competition remains amicable.
