The Cleveland Browns wrapped up organized team activities (OTAs) this week and now shift focus to mandatory minicamp, scheduled for June 10–12. While the players have the weekend off, rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders continues to draw national attention.
Former NFL quarterback turned analyst Robert Griffin III has been one of Sanders’ most vocal supporters, recently praising the Browns rookie for his “NFL timing and rhythm” during OTAs. But not everyone agrees.
Jason Whitlock Calls Out Robert Griffin III Over Shedeur Sanders Praise
On June 4, Griffin III shared a clip on Twitter of Sanders at Browns practice, posting a message of support.
“When you watch all the clips of Sanders, you see why his tape said he was a first-round QB,” Griffin III wrote. “He plays with NFL timing and rhythm, reads with his feet, plays ahead of the defense, has more than enough arm strength, and knows how to layer the ball.”
When you watch all the clips of Shedeur Sanders, you see why his tape said he was a 1st Round QB. He plays with NFL timing and rhythm, reads with his feet, plays ahead of the defense, has more than enough arm strength and he knows how to layer the ball. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/9tW8IdX0Gs
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) June 4, 2025
The post drew criticism from former ESPN and Fox Sports commentator Jason Whitlock. On his show “Fearless with Jason Whitlock”, the longtime columnist questioned Griffin III’s motives.
“What is RGIII doing here other than kissing up to Deion (Sanders)?” Whitlock asked, referring to Shedeur’s father. He suggested Griffin’s remarks may be influenced more by personal ties than objective analysis.
Whitlock’s co-host, Steve Kim, also chimed in, accusing Griffin III of “pandering” and brushing off the OTA footage as meaningless.
“You know what didn’t look like a first-round draft pick to most teams? His actual game tape at Colorado,” Kim said. “Everything looks good against air.”
Sanders Has Real Shot at Playing Time in Cleveland
Despite being drafted 144th overall, Sanders has a realistic shot at early playing time this season. Starting quarterback Deshaun Watson is expected to miss the entire year after re-tearing his Achilles, leaving head coach Kevin Stefanski with major decisions to make at the position.
The Browns’ quarterback depth chart features a trio of options: 40-year-old veteran Joe Flacco, journeyman Kenny Pickett — now on his third team in four seasons — and third-round rookie Dillon Gabriel.
Flacco will likely enter training camp as the projected starter, with Gabriel also in line for early reps. But the Browns aren’t ruling anything out, and Sanders will be in the mix if he continues to impress.
While Griffin III’s claim that Sanders is a “first-round quarterback” might raise eyebrows, most observers would agree Sanders has more upside than the typical fifth-round pick. Off-field dynamics, particularly the influence of his father, likely contributed to his slide in the draft.
Regardless, Shedeur Sanders will have the chance to change that narrative on the field. If he delivers, Griffin III just might have the last laugh — at Whitlock’s expense.
I like Whitlock commentary on most things. But when it comes to the Sanders family Whitlock is out of his mind. He despises Deion and the family. Then the last little punk Kin makes an absolutely stupid comment about fim and first round. How bout Watching his games four the last four years you idiot. Clearly Danders was the best QB in the draft.