The Cleveland Browns have a major decision to make about Shedeur Sanders and the future of their quarterback position. Many around the NFL have criticized their current options for the position and urged them to find an outside replacement. ESPN Cleveland radio host and team analyst Tony Rizzo shared a much different take on the situation.
Tony Rizzo Sends Direct Message to Shedeur Sanders
Sanders enjoyed his fair share of successes during his rookie season with the Browns, but he also struggled severely at times. He ended the year as their starting quarterback, but many around the league believe they should go in a different direction.
Rizzo addressed the situation during a segment on ESPN Cleveland and spoke of what he believes the future of Cleveland’s quarterback position looks like. He sent a direct message to Sanders along the way.
“There are people in the media saying that the Browns quarterback room sucks. I want you to know that, I want you to embrace that, and I want you to use that. Me, your dad, and Mel Kiper, we’re the only ones right now in your corner, and you’re going to show them kid. You’re going to show them, and we’re going to have the last laugh. Hang in there, work hard, and go Browns,” Rizzo stated.
“You’re going to show them, you’re going to show them kid, and we’re gonna have the last laugh,” – Rizz has a message for @ShedeurSanders. pic.twitter.com/3htmaLBWpX
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) March 10, 2026
Sanders finished his rookie year ranked 46th of 48 qualified quarterbacks in PFSN’s Impact Rankings for the 2025 NFL season. Dillon Gabriel, who was drafted before him and given an opportunity to be the Browns’ starter before him as well, was one of only two quarterbacks to finish the year lower.
This concerning reality has led many to suggest the Browns would be wise to explore other quarterback options, but Rizzo remains a believer in the polarizing rookie. The analyst encouraged the prospect to use all the criticism as fuel, which he thinks will eventually lead to proving them all wrong.
How Todd Monken’s Arrival Could Shape Shedeur Sanders’ Future
The Browns made a change at head coach during the 2026 NFL offseason, with Todd Monken replacing Kevin Stefanski, who is now the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. It will be interesting to see how the former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator views his quarterback room.
Cleveland’s activity during the offseason, including in free agency and the NFL Draft, will likely give a better idea about where Monken stands. If they decline to bring in another quarterback, it may mean Monken is also on that short list of Sanders’ believers.
