Shedeur Sanders and the Browns: A secret contract clause that could boost his earnings before his first game?

Shedeur Sanders enters the NFL spotlight amid rumors and expectations that have captured the attention of fans and analysts alike.

Since signing with the Cleveland Browns, speculation about his contract has been nonstop, including claims of a deal that could multiply his earnings even before his debut on the field.

The controversial “Primary Equity Clause”

The most striking rumor suggested that Shedeur Sanders would have a “Primary Equity Clause,” a mechanism that would allow him to receive a percentage of merchandise, sponsorship, and promotional revenue derived from his NIL contract.

If true, it would have been an unprecedented move for an NFL rookie, giving Sanders a unique financial advantage.

However, league experts and reporters, including NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, categorically denied this claim.

“This is absolutely false. There is no such thing as a ‘Primary Equity Clause,’” Rapoport clarified, noting that any additional compensation comes from external sponsorships, not the team contract.

Shedeur Sanders is shaking up the NFL! 🏈 His ‘Prime Equity’ clause could make him one of the richest QBs in history BEFORE his first snap. Are NFL owners really ‘crashing out’ over this groundbreaking rookie deal? #NFL #ShedeurSanders #DeionSanders #ClevelandBrowns pic.twitter.com/IwzmjAA3TE

— Statpro (@statpro_ai) August 15, 2025

Actual contract and off-field opportunities for Shedeur Sanders

Shedeur Sanders official contract with the Browns is a standard four-year rookie deal worth approximately $4.6 million, including a $447,380 signing bonus.

These figures align with the NFL standard rookie salary scale for his position and draft round.

While there are no additional team-linked payments, Sanders has already generated significant income through collegiate sponsorships with brands like Nike, Gatorade, and Beats by Dre, building a solid financial foundation even before his first NFL snap.

Sanders as the Browns third quarterback

As the 2025 season begins, Shedeur Sanders sits as the Browns third-string quarterback, behind veteran Joe Flacco and rookie Dillon Gabriel.

Although immediate playing time will be a challenge, the franchise values Sanders not only as a sports investment but also as a media asset capable of drawing attention and impact off the field.

The combination of talent, potential, and business agreements solidifies Shedeur Sanders presence in the NFL, keeping fans focused on every move of the young prospect.

Even without extraordinary clauses in his contract, Shedeur Sanders continues to prove that his value and visibility go far beyond that of a typical rookie, establishing himself as a figure destined to make waves in Cleveland and beyond.