Shedeur Sanders: A promising talent with an uncertain path
The former Colorado quarterback entered the league surrounded by high expectations. His flashes of talent in the preseason fueled hopes that he could become the key piece to revamp Cleveland offense.
In his first game, Shedeur Sanders responded with confidence and explosiveness, leading many to believe he had secured a privileged spot in the rotation.
However, reality turned out differently. Inconsistency in the following games and the coaching staff’s decision to remove him from the protection of the starting offensive line raised suspicions.
Browns HC Kevin Stefanski named Dillon Gabriel as Cleveland’s No. 2 quarterback.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 26, 2025
Some analysts even suggested the franchise was “testing” the 23-year-old under unfavorable conditions. The result was a modest performance that sparked doubts about his true role on the team.
The move that infuriated fans
When the Browns trimmed their quarterback group after Kenny Pickett’s move to the Raiders, it seemed inevitable that Shedeur Sanders would become Joe Flacco’s main backup.
But head coach Kevin Stefanski’s announcement turned the story on its head: Dillon Gabriel was named the second quarterback, pushing Sanders down to third on the depth chart.
The decision unleashed a wave of criticism on social media. For many, it was incomprehensible that a player with Sanders athletic ability and media impact would fall behind a rookie drafted in the third round.
Others defended the logic of betting on Gabriel, arguing that Sanders development still requires patience and work.
Today, Cleveland finds itself in the media spotlight. Sanders designation not only impacts the team but also reignites a broader debate. Are the Browns building their future with strategic vision, or are they simply wasting a talent destined to shine?