Shedeur Sanders entered the 2025 NFL Draft widely projected as a potential first-round quarterback. However, he slid all the way to the fifth round. That’s where the Cleveland Browns surprised many by selecting him with the 144th overall pick. Despite the fall, he’s determined to prove that draft position doesn’t define his ceiling.
Currently slotted as the fourth-string quarterback in a crowded Browns room—behind Deshaun Watson (PUP list), Joe Flacco, and Kenny Pickett—Sanders seized his opportunity and was named the starter for the Browns’ first preseason (exhibition) game.
On Friday night, Sanders delivered an impressive debut performance:
- 14 of 23 pass attempts completed
- 138 passing yards
- 2 touchdown passes
- 0 interceptions
- 19 rushing yards on four carries
Despite the stacked deck and naysayers hoping to see him stumble. Those doubters have yet to get their wish. Sanders looked poised, confident, and ready for the moment.
His performance received high praise, including from his father, Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, and NBA legend LeBron James. Both celebrated his strong showing.
LeBron James had some emphatically supportive things to say about Shedeur Sanders
“That young looking good out there! @ShedeurSanders Keep going UP!!! HEAD down on the grind and HEAD high to the most high!”
— LeBron James praised Sanders’ performance and encouraged him to maintain his focus and momentum
He didn’t stop there — LeBron also addressed any early criticism head-on:
“And I don’t wanna hear that ‘It’s only preseason’ bs. Cause if he was out there not going in y’all would be on his ass about it! So give credit and grace lames.”