Shedeur Sanders waits, Travis Hunter starts — all eyes on the ex-Colorado duo’s NFL debut

The NFL doesn’t wait for anyone, and Shedeur Sanders is learning that fast. The young quarterback, once the face of Colorado football and the son of a legend, is facing a tougher start to his pro career than many expected. On Monday, the Cleveland Browns released their first unofficial depth chart, and Sanders landed in the fourth spot—behind Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel—according to Athlon Sports.

Shedeur Sanders has flashed moments of promise during training camp. But his current position reflects a harsh reality. Competition is fierce, and the margin for error is razor-thin. To make matters more complicated, the Browns signed Tyler Huntley this week, adding another name to an already crowded quarterback room. The move seems precautionary, as three of the four QBs—Sanders included—are nursing injuries. Sanders is dealing with shoulder soreness, while Pickett and Gabriel are recovering from hamstring issues.

Sources: Browns are signing QB Tyler “Snoop” Huntley, who spent part of last season with Cleveland. With Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel nursing hamstring injuries, and Shedeur Sanders having a sore shoulder, the Browns need another arm. Enter Huntley. https://t.co/6nJ1w1AN8w pic.twitter.com/hLNJzbcWhQ

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 4, 2025

More questions than answers

Shedeur Sanders’ situation raises doubts about his playing time and short-term development. He entered the NFL with a high media profile, largely fueled by his connection to Deion Sanders and his standout college career. But the leap to the pros demands more than talent—it requires adaptability, resilience, and above all, patience. And the NFL doesn’t wait.

Meanwhile, his former teammate Travis Hunter is off to a much smoother start. The Jacksonville Jaguars listed Hunter as a starting wide receiver on their first depth chart, alongside Brian Thomas Jr. and Dyami Brown. But that’s not all—Hunter is also listed as a backup cornerback, fulfilling his long-standing dream of playing both sides of the ball. According to USA Today, head coach Liam Coen plans to use Hunter primarily on offense early in the season, while gradually integrating him into the defense.

 

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While Travis Hunter begins to live out his two-way vision, Shedeur Sanders must focus on climbing the ranks in a quarterback room that offers little breathing space.

The good news for Shedeur Sanders is that the season is just beginning. Depth charts in August are far from final, and opportunities can arise at any moment—especially on a team already dealing with injuries. But one thing is clear: the road to a starting role will be a constant battle.

Shedeur Sanders has the talent. Now he must prove he has the grit to stay in the game and give the Browns what they’re looking for.