Sanders will have to work his way up the ladder throughout pre-season
Shedeur Sanders has arrived in Cleveland with big dreams-and bigger expectations. The rookie quarterback, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, is working to carve out his own legacy in the league, blending his personal ambition with the weight of football royalty.
But as he begins his professional journey, it’s clear the path to QB1 is going to test every inch of his resolve.
From the start, Sanders has shown he’s not here just to participate-he’s here to compete. Staying late after drills to get extra reps and connect with teammates, he’s proving his work ethic matches the hype. Still, Sanders is under no illusion about the challenge ahead. When asked recently if he felt ready for the leap, he responded with rare honesty.
“I’m not sure. I haven’t played a snap yet.”
His response reflects both humility and awareness. For all his talent, the NFL is a different arena-and the competition in Cleveland is fierce.
Loaded depth chart highlights uphill climb
The Browns’ quarterback room is as deep as it is experienced. Veteran Joe Flacco sits atop the depth chart, still passionate about the game and determined to keep playing.
“I want to play, and I’m going to play until I can’t,” Flacco said, emphasizing his unwillingness to relinquish the role.
Next in line is Kenny Pickett, followed by rookie Dillon Gabriel, who was drafted ahead of Sanders. With Deshaun Watson still recovering from his Achilles injury, Sanders currently slots in at QB4. If Watson returns healthy, Sanders will face even more competition for limited opportunities.
Despite his placement on the chart, Sanders is already winning over the locker room. Reports from NFL Rookie Watch note he’s quickly become a favorite among both veterans and fellow rookies. His infectious energy, coupled with moments like his signature “wrist flex” during rookie minicamp photos, is making him a standout beyond the field.
Meanwhile, the battle between Sanders and Gabriel is becoming one of the more intriguing storylines of the offseason. Gabriel has welcomed the competition with open arms.
“I love it. It’s competition. It’s making all of us better,” he said.
More than just battling for snaps, Gabriel is focused on fostering a supportive environment within the quarterback room.
“We know how important a healthy QB room is. How do you create an environment where everyone can be their best?”
That perspective is clearly shared. There’s no animosity between the rookies-only mutual respect. Sanders himself applauded Gabriel for how he’s handled media criticism and pressure.
“He’s a cool person… I like how he handles situations,” Sanders said.
Both young quarterbacks turned down lucrative NIL deals in college to chase their NFL dreams. Now, side by side in Cleveland, they’re locked in a race not just to rise on the depth chart-but to shape the future of the franchise. With talent, drive, and professionalism already on full display, it’s not a matter of if, but when, we’ll see greatness from one-or both-of them.
