The Cleveland quarterback room has been under the microscope lately, and questions about Shedeur Sanders’ future are louder after Mike Florio’s analysis on NBC Sports.
“All (Cleveland) Browns quarterbacks: With Jacksonville’s first‑round pick in their back pocket, the Browns could be in prime position to get a future franchise QB… Because there is a chance none of them will be the starter in 2026.”
That line puts Shedeur Sanders squarely in limbo. He’s shown flashes during minicamp and pre-season drills, but the Browns are also eyeing 2026 draft prospects like Arch Manning or Fernando Mendoza to dip into their two first-round selections.
For Shedeur Sanders, the message is clear: perform now or risk being passed over in favor of a newer, fresher face. The organization has him on a short leash, with Tom Brady’s mentorship and Cam Newton’s advice bringing both pressure and support.
He’s not alone in the scramble. Fellow rookies Dillon Gabriel and veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett are all in the mix. But Shedeur Sanders may have the least runway. NFL insiders are already forecasting that only one of this quartet could hold the QB1 job next season, and early chatter isn’t leaning his way.
The ball is in Shedeur Sanders hands right now. Can he show up when the moment calls for it? Or will his light be outshone by the next breed?
Browns QB Room Tight—for Now, Shedeur Sanders Locked in Growth Mode
Shedeur Sanders is still navigating the QB battle in Cleveland, and one of his own lines suggests he’s embracing the grind, not running from it.
“My goal is to be the best teammate and to be as positive as I can be,” Sanders said after Wednesday practice.
He added: “I’ve got time to grow … When it’s my time to play, I’ll be ready.”
The rookie fire hasn’t gone unnoticed. Veteran presence and injuries have lingered over the Browns. Whether it’s Joe Flacco’s steady hand, Kenny Pickett’s first-round pedigree, or Dillon Gabriel flashing with OTA reps, Shedeur Sanders isn’t overlooking the competition. Instead, he’s building chemistry and winning real trust inside those walls, not just in the headlines.
Roster analysts say only three QBs will make the cut by final 53-man roster. That means for Shedeur Sanders, it’s not a free ride. Even his speeding tickets and off-field flare are part of the balance he has to manage.
For now, Shedeur Sanders is doing what he said he’d do: be supportive, be ready, and let growth show on the scoreboard and not just in press lines.
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