In Berea, Ohio, Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders has more pressing matters than getting his preferred jersey number. As he navigates his way through the rookie minicamp, his focus is on mastering the playbook and proving his worth after being selected in the fifth round of the NFL draft. Despite the draft setback, Sanders is determined not to dwell on negotiations for his desired jersey, Number 2, which is currently worn by receiver DeAndre Carter. “I’m not in buying mode. My signing bonus isn’t high enough for that right now,” Sanders explained during his 13-minute media session.
Instead, Sanders has opted for Number 12, a choice that doesn’t seem too shabby considering it was the number donned by Tom Brady, who clinched seven Super Bowls with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Interestingly, Brady reached out to Sanders after the draft, advising him to channel his disappointment at being the 144th overall pick as motivation—a sentiment Brady knows well, having been the 199th pick in the 2000 draft.
Sanders acknowledged the backing of his family and supporters during his draft journey, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support. “A lot of people supported my journey, and I’m thankful to have such a strong foundation,” he said. While some blame Sanders’ draft slide on comments made by his father, NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, the young quarterback understands that moving forward, his progress depends entirely on his own efforts. He acknowledged, “I’m the one making the plays, enduring the hits, and scoring touchdowns. The opportunity is there, but it’s up to me to carve my path.”
A large portion of the criticism Sanders faces stems from older fans, influenced by their perceptions of his famous father. He shared, “Most negativity is targeted at my dad, and I just happen to be his son. But face-to-face, there’s no negativity; it mainly exists online.”
During the rookie minicamp, both Sanders and third-round pick Dillon Gabriel received ample practice time. Their tasks include learning the playbook, honing skills, and getting comfortable with taking snaps under center—experience they both find invaluable. As the veterans haven’t yet engaged in full 11-on-11 drills, head coach Kevin Stefanski introduced certain plays to evaluate their on-field dynamics. Gabriel expressed his openness to the competition, stating, “It’s a great opportunity to learn from each other. We’re surrounded by experienced players like Kenny (Pickett), Joe (Flacco), and Deshaun (Watson), and there’s a lot to gain from everyone.”
With the transition into the offseason program in full swing, the rookies are expected to integrate with the veterans soon, though the workouts will gradually intensify. A friendly competition brewing among Sanders, Gabriel, Flacco, and Pickett could mean more options at the quarterback position, leading to possible additional spots for receivers on the roster. Despite all this, Deshaun Watson remains sidelined with an Achilles injury, but he’s out of his boot, participating in team meetings, and progressing in his rehabilitation journey.
Stefanski emphasized that learning the offense isn’t immediate, stating, “You can’t just download the playbook into someone and expect them to get it right away. It takes time, and mistakes will happen. Our job is to teach and grow from them.” Sanders aims to use the upcoming months to refine his skills and stay positive, acknowledging, “I commit to improving daily, trying to perfect elements of my game. I’m grateful for the chance I have now and thrilled to be here.”