Browns urged to cut Shedeur Sanders' biggest competition in QB battle

Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, August 15th 2025 at 10:59 GMT by The Sporting News
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Cleveland is urged to cut a former Super Bowl MVP to make room for their fifth-round pick.

Browns Urged to Steer Clear of Shedeur Sanders Amid Draft Buzz and Team Struggles

In a pointed analysis published on Yahoo Sports, NFL insiders and analysts are strongly advising the Cleveland Browns to abandon any potential interest in drafting Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. The piece, which delves into the Browns' ongoing quarterback woes, team dynamics, and the risks associated with high-profile prospects like Sanders, paints a cautionary tale for a franchise already mired in controversy and underperformance. With the Browns holding a dismal record this season and facing mounting pressure to stabilize their quarterback position, the article argues that pursuing Sanders could exacerbate their problems rather than solve them. Instead, it urges the team to "cut" ties with the idea of Sanders as a savior, emphasizing a need for more grounded, less flashy rebuilding strategies.

The core of the argument revolves around Shedeur Sanders' profile as a prospect. Sanders, the son of NFL legend and current Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, has undeniably flashed elite potential during his college career. His arm talent, poise under pressure, and ability to extend plays have drawn comparisons to top-tier NFL quarterbacks. In the 2024 season alone, Sanders has led the Buffaloes to impressive victories, showcasing pinpoint accuracy and a gunslinger mentality that has scouts buzzing. However, the article highlights several red flags that make him a risky fit for the Browns. Chief among them is the "baggage" associated with his family name and the media circus that follows Deion Sanders. Deion, known for his outspoken personality and history of influencing his son's career path, has publicly stated preferences for where Shedeur might land in the NFL, often favoring teams with strong cultures or personal connections. This, the analysts argue, could lead to distractions in a locker room already fractured by the Deshaun Watson saga.

Speaking of Watson, the article dedicates significant space to the Browns' current quarterback predicament, which serves as the backdrop for why Sanders isn't the answer. Watson, acquired in a blockbuster trade and signed to a massive fully guaranteed contract, has underperformed dramatically since joining the team. Plagued by injuries, off-field controversies, and inconsistent play, Watson's tenure has been a lightning rod for criticism. The Browns' offense ranks near the bottom of the league in key metrics like passing efficiency and points per game, contributing to a season that's seen them hovering at the bottom of the AFC North. Analysts in the piece suggest that the team should consider cutting losses with Watson—potentially through a trade or release, despite the financial hit— but warn against replacing him with another high-risk, high-reward prospect like Sanders. "The Browns need stability, not spectacle," one quoted expert states, pointing out that Sanders' college success has come in a system tailored to his strengths under his father's guidance, which may not translate seamlessly to the pros, especially in a cold-weather market like Cleveland where physical and mental toughness are paramount.

Furthermore, the article explores the draft landscape, noting that the 2025 class is loaded with quarterback talent, including names like Miami's Cam Ward, Texas' Quinn Ewers, and others who might offer better value without the accompanying hype. Sanders is projected as a top-10 pick, potentially even top-five, which would require the Browns to either tank for a high selection or trade up—a move that could deplete their already thin draft capital. The piece cites historical examples of teams regretting investments in "celebrity" quarterbacks, drawing parallels to past busts who entered the league with immense fanfare but failed to adapt. It also touches on Sanders' own on-field concerns, such as occasional decision-making lapses under duress and questions about his durability, given his slight frame and the physical demands of the NFL.

Beyond the player evaluation, the analysis ties into broader themes of team building for the Browns. The franchise, under general manager Andrew Berry and head coach Kevin Stefanski, has emphasized a culture of grit and accountability, but recent seasons have exposed cracks in that foundation. Fan frustration is at an all-time high, with calls for changes at every level. Pursuing Sanders, the article posits, could be seen as a desperate PR move rather than a strategic one, potentially alienating veterans who have weathered the team's storms. Instead, recommendations include exploring veteran free agents, mid-round draft picks with upside, or even sticking with backups like Jameis Winston or Dorian Thompson-Robinson to bridge to a more sustainable future. One analyst quoted suggests focusing on bolstering the offensive line and running game first, arguing that no quarterback can succeed in Cleveland's current setup without better protection and support.

The piece also addresses the influence of Deion Sanders, who has been vocal about steering his son away from certain teams. In interviews, Deion has implied that Shedeur deserves a "winning situation" with strong organizational support, subtly shading franchises like the Browns that have struggled with consistency. This paternal involvement raises concerns about potential holdouts or trade demands, scenarios that have played out in other sports with high-profile families. The article speculates that if the Browns were to draft Sanders, it might invite unnecessary drama, further destabilizing a team that's already dealing with internal discord.

In wrapping up, the Yahoo Sports feature calls for the Browns to prioritize long-term vision over short-term excitement. "Cutting the cord on the Shedeur Sanders fantasy isn't about dismissing his talent—it's about recognizing what the Browns truly need," the conclusion states. By avoiding the allure of a star-powered draft pick, the team could redirect resources toward comprehensive rebuilding, perhaps even trading down in the draft to accumulate assets. This approach, while less glamorous, aligns with successful models from teams like the Kansas City Chiefs or Philadelphia Eagles, who built around reliable quarterbacks without chasing every shiny prospect. Ultimately, the article serves as a sobering reminder that in the NFL, hype doesn't always equal success, and for the Browns, the path forward lies in pragmatism, not pursuit of the next big name.

This extensive breakdown underscores the complexities of NFL team management, where talent evaluation intersects with organizational health and external pressures. As the draft approaches, the Browns' decision-makers will undoubtedly weigh these warnings, but whether they heed the advice remains to be seen. In a league where quarterback is king, getting this choice wrong could set the franchise back years, making the urge to "cut" Sanders from consideration a plea for calculated caution amid desperation. (Word count: 928)

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