Shedeur Sanders’ climb toward the Cleveland Browns’ starting job feels like something building just beneath the surface while everyone else is busy chasing the next shiny possibility. And right now, that shiny possibility has a name: Anthony Richardson.
Why Standing Pat Could Elevate Shedeur Sanders in Cleveland per Insider
Richardson, a former No. 4 overall pick whose rookie deal carries a fully guaranteed $33.9 million value, is rumored to be available as the Indianapolis Colts appear ready to pivot in a different direction. In theory, Richardson represents the upside at a discount: rare athleticism, a cannon arm, and the kind of mobility that makes defensive coordinators lose sleep.
But inside Cleveland, at least according to Tony Grossi, that door may already be closed. And that gives Sanders something invaluable this offseason: space.
Grossi made it clear that he doesn’t see the fit: “No, because he’s a developmental project, like Trey Lance. There’s intrigue and athleticism, but they have a developmental quarterback already. His name is Shedeur Sanders. They have to develop him. If you bring in a guy like Richardson, you’re glomming up the whole project.”
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There’s something undeniably tempting about Richardson. However, injuries have consistently stalled his development. He appeared in only two games last season. The promise is there, but the continuity isn’t, so, as per Grossi, he is still developing.
Meanwhile, Sanders, who was drafted in the fifth round, had to be patient. Growth. Maybe a long apprenticeship. However, he started seven games, throwing for 1,400 yards with 7 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
A 56.9 score on PFSN’s NFL QB Impact. The stat line was uneven, as most young quarterbacks’ are, but the flashes were undeniable. Tight-window throws. Calm third-down decisions. A sense of control that doesn’t always show up in box scores but absolutely shows up on film.
And suddenly, this isn’t theoretical anymore.
According to Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot, the Week 1 race isn’t tilted heavily toward veteran Deshaun Watson. It’s balanced. Cabot recently estimated the odds at roughly 40% for Watson, 40% for Sanders, and 20% for the rest of the field. Neck and neck.
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Watson, once a three-time Pro Bowler, is attempting to reclaim his form after missing last season while recovering from two Achilles surgeries. New head coach Todd Monken has spoken openly about tapping back into Watson’s elite play. But he has also emphasized development, and development requires clarity.
That is why the Richardson speculation feels less like a solution and more like a distraction.
