Shedeur Sanders was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round, 144th overall, of the 2025 NFL Draft after being widely regarded as a first-round prospect [1, 2]. He started seven games as a rookie, completing 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions, while rushing for 169 yards and one touchdown [1]. Despite the struggles, Shedeur received a Pro Bowl invitation during his first NFL season [1].
Deion Sanders described the draft process and rookie year as "going through hell," citing unfair negative reports and public criticism about Shedeur [1, 2]. He said, "When he takes off his shirt, I see the scars on his back that he’s been through hell, but he’s made it through hell" [1]. Deion pushed back against claims his son lacked professionalism, stating, "He would never go into a meeting with headphones on. He would never go into a meeting unprepared. Like, that’s just not who he is" [1]. He acknowledged that much of the criticism bothered him but not Shedeur, who just wanted his NFL chance [1].
An anonymous NFL coach called Shedeur's pre-draft interview "the worst formal interview I've ever been in in my life," which contributed to doubts about his readiness at the pro level [2]. Analysts say Shedeur’s draft stock dropped due to perceived gaps between his skills and pro fit rather than his talent [2].
Shedeur has grown spiritually after his draft slide and rookie struggles, accepting "if it ain't your time, it ain't your time" [1]. Deion expressed a desire to meet Browns coach Todd Monken soon to discuss Shedeur’s development and coaching needs. He said, "I want to meet [Coach Monken] because I think it’s vital that as a coach, not the dad, I can tell him a few things about [Shedeur], how to get him going" [1].
The Browns enter the 2026 offseason with four quarterbacks on their roster: Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, Deshaun Watson, and 2026 sixth-round pick Taylen Green [1].
