Shedeur Sanders is stepping into one of the most crowded quarterback rooms in the league, but according to one former NFL quarterback, he still has a real shot at winning the job.
The Cleveland Browns have four quarterbacks competing for the starting role: Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Sanders. Furthermore, head coach Kevin Stefanski has clarified that the competition is wide open.
Shedeur Sanders’ Path to Browns Starting Job
Sanders was selected by the Browns in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, a surprising slide for a quarterback with first-round potential. Despite being drafted behind third-round pick Gabriel, Sanders has already made a strong impression in OTAs with his accuracy and decision-making.
According to ESPN Cleveland, Sanders leads the group in completion percentage (64.3%) and is tied with Gabriel for most touchdown passes (three) through Day 2 of OTAs.
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
Tim Hasselbeck’s Take on Sanders’ Opportunity
While Flacco’s experience gives him an edge, Sanders is proving he belongs in the conversation. On “NFL on ESPN”, former NFL quarterback Tim Hasselbeck explained why Sanders has a legitimate shot at competing for the starting job.
“Going to a spot that does not have an entrenched starter is a benefit to any quarterback because at least there’s opportunity [to be the starter],” Hasselbeck said. “If you go to Buffalo, you’re just there to be Josh Allen’s backup. If you go somewhere else that doesn’t have an entrenched starter, you have a chance. That’s the glimmer of hope.”
Sanders isn’t walking into a pre-determined depth chart, and Hasselbeck believes that environment can work in his favor.
Shedeur Sanders College Stats and Playing Style
Sanders had an impressive college career, first at Jackson State and later at Colorado, where he played for his father, Deion Sanders. Across 50 collegiate games, the young quarterback posted a 70.1% completion percentage, 14,347 passing yards, 134 passing touchdowns, 27 interceptions, and 17 rushing touchdowns.
Sanders is known for his quick release, accuracy, and ability to extend plays, making him a strong fit for Cleveland’s revamped offense under new coordinator Tommy Rees.
Sanders Can Win Browns QB Battle
The Browns’ quarterback competition is far from settled. While Flacco and Pickett have the most experience, Sanders is gaining momentum and proving he can compete at the NFL level.
If he continues to impress in training camp, he could force his way into the conversation for the Week 1 starter against the Cincinnati Bengals. For now, Sanders has that “glimmer of hope”, and he’s making the most of it.
