The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation might look crowded, but rookie Shedeur Sanders is quickly proving he belongs in the conversation. Sanders, selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, put together a standout performance during the open portion of the team’s OTAs, making it clear he’s more than ready for NFL competition.
Shedeur Sanders Holds His Number High
In Wednesday’s practice, Sanders led the quarterback room by completing 9 of 14 passes for three touchdowns and zero interceptions. While fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel tossed three scores himself (11-for-20), Sanders outpaced him with a higher completion rate.
Veterans Kenny Pickett (9-for-15, 2 TDs) and Joe Flacco (4-for-7, 0 TDs) rounded out the day, emphasizing just how competitive this quarterback battle has become.
Day 2 of open Browns OTAs are in the books. Here are the QB stats from all 7v7 and 11v11 team drills. pic.twitter.com/XNFoWM7ODu
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) June 4, 2025
Rookie Calm, Veteran Results
Sanders didn’t just rack up stats—he looked poised while doing so. His quick decision-making, smooth footwork, and accurate throws caught the attention of coaches and teammates alike.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski praised Sanders for being “wired to get in early, stay late, and put in whatever work is required.” Stefanski has consistently emphasized Sanders’ maturity, even referring to him as “a sponge in the meeting room.”
#Browns Shedeur Sanders intercepted on tipped ball by Nick Needham pic.twitter.com/tzOe2QmQBl
— Fred Greetham (@FredGreetham9) June 4, 2025
Perhaps the highlight of the day came when Sanders threaded an eye-popping touchdown pass to wideout Kaden Davis, splitting two defenders with NFL-level precision. The throw quickly made its rounds online, even catching the attention of his father, NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, who proudly reposted the highlight with the caption, “Yes Sir.”
Shedeur ➡️ Kaden Davis ➡️ TD pic.twitter.com/ysXwRT54Zr
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) June 4, 2025
Making an Impression Early
Sanders entered OTAs facing a steep climb. He’s currently battling fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel, ex-Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco, and former first-rounder Kenny Pickett. An injured Deshaun Watson remains relatively out of the picture. Despite initially being considered QB4, Sanders’ recent showings suggest he might rapidly ascend the Browns’ depth chart.
SHEDEUR WITH THE TD DOT 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/EoGpX7Ple3
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) June 4, 2025
The rookie’s strong early performances have not gone unnoticed. NFL analyst Louis Riddick recently said, “If this is an organic competition with a level playing field, he can be your starter Week 1, no doubt about it.” As Stefanski and the coaching staff evaluate this deep quarterback room, Sanders’ OTA stats and impressive throws continue to strengthen his case.
Next Steps for Sanders
The Browns face a difficult decision heading into training camp in late July. Keeping four quarterbacks is highly unlikely, meaning Sanders must continue to capitalize on his reps. With his accuracy, poise, and rapidly growing chemistry with teammates, he’s quickly building a compelling case for himself.
If Sanders keeps delivering performances like Wednesday’s session, the Browns will have no choice but to reconsider the pecking order heading into camp. And if Cleveland was looking for clarity at the quarterback position, Shedeur Sanders is quickly making himself a major part of the answer.