The Cleveland Browns’ 2025 minicamp kicked off on June 10, and rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders stole the spotlight with a standout performance. Despite a surprising fifth-round draft slide, Sanders is proving he’s a contender in the Browns’ crowded quarterback room. His highlight-reel play during team drills has fans and coaches buzzing about his potential to lead the team. This blog post dives into Sanders’ minicamp performance, his journey to Cleveland, and what it means for the Browns’ 2025 season. Let’s explore why this rookie is turning heads and how he’s shaping the team’s future.
A Star Play at Minicamp
On the first day of the Browns’ mandatory minicamp, Shedeur Sanders delivered the play of the day, dropping a perfect 40-yard pass to rookie wide receiver Gage Larvadain on a go route. The throw, described by USA Today, drew cheers from fans and staff watching from the team’s practice facility roof. Sanders’ precision and poise under pressure showcased the skills that made him a star at Colorado, where he threw for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns in 2024.
His performance wasn’t just a one-off. Posts on X reported Sanders went 10-for-12 with an 83% completion rate, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions, outshining veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, as well as fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel. This strong showing has fueled speculation about Sanders’ role in Cleveland’s quarterback competition.
Overcoming the Draft Slide
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Sanders’ journey to the Browns was anything but smooth. Projected as a first- or second-round pick, he fell to the fifth round (No. 144 overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft, a slide that shocked analysts and sparked debate. Factors like his father Deion Sanders’ high-profile involvement and perceived off-field distractions were cited as reasons, according to ESPN. Yet, Sanders remains unfazed, telling reporters, “I’m here now, so none of that stuff matters.”
His mindset has been bolstered by advice from NFL legend Tom Brady, who texted Sanders post-draft, comparing their late-round journeys. Sanders, now wearing No. 12 like Brady, said, “My story’s going to be similar,” reflecting his confidence in proving doubters wrong.
The Browns’ Quarterback Conundrum
Cleveland’s quarterback room is one of the NFL’s most intriguing in 2025, with five signal-callers vying for the starting role. Deshaun Watson, sidelined by a re-torn Achilles, is unlikely to play, leaving a void. The Browns’ 2022 trade for Watson, which cost three first-round picks and a $230 million contract, was labeled a “big swing-and-miss” by owner Jimmy Haslam, per ESPN. This opens the door for Sanders, Gabriel, Flacco, and Pickett.
Here’s a breakdown of the competition:
- Joe Flacco: The 40-year-old veteran led Cleveland to the playoffs in 2023 but took limited reps at minicamp.
- Kenny Pickett: Acquired from Philadelphia, Pickett took first-team reps but went 9-for-16 with no touchdowns.
- Dillon Gabriel: Drafted in the third round, Gabriel completed 11-of-16 passes with two touchdowns and one interception.
- Shedeur Sanders: Despite fewer reps, Sanders’ accuracy and big-play ability stood out.
Coach Kevin Stefanski has promised a fair competition, with reps divided to evaluate each player’s fit. Sanders’ ability to make the most of limited opportunities could give him an edge.
A Crowded but Open Race
The Browns’ quarterback instability is no secret, with 40 different starters since 1999, the most in the NFL. Sanders, a polished pocket passer with a knack for short-to-intermediate throws, fits Stefanski’s system, which has thrived with similar quarterbacks like Case Keenum. As CBS Sports noted, Sanders’ 7-of-9 performance with three touchdowns in earlier OTAs already turned heads, signaling his potential to climb the depth chart.
However, challenges remain. Sanders’ tendency to hold the ball too long, leading to sacks at Colorado, is a concern. His limited reps compared to Pickett and Gabriel mean he must maximize every snap to prove he’s ready for Week 1.
Sanders’ Path to Stardom
Despite his draft position, Sanders carries the aura of a first-round talent. His college stats, including a Colorado single-season record for passing yards, and his mental toughness behind a porous offensive line highlight his potential. General Manager Andrew Berry praised Sanders’ accuracy and pocket presence, noting, “We didn’t expect him to be available in the fifth round.”
Sanders has also shown growth off the field. At rookie minicamp, he was the last player off the field, soaking up extra reps and studying the playbook, per The Athletic. His work ethic, combined with mechanical tweaks observed during OTAs, suggests he’s adapting quickly to the NFL.
Why Sanders Could Win the Job
Sanders’ path to the starting role hinges on several factors:
- Accuracy and Poise: His 83% completion rate in minicamp shows he can deliver under pressure.
- Learning from Veterans: Sanders has been vocal about learning from Flacco’s experience.
- Fan Support: His jersey is the top-selling rookie jersey, per Fanatics, boosting his profile.
- Opportunity: With no clear starter, Sanders has a rare chance for a fifth-rounder to shine.
ESPN’s Kimberley A. Martin noted Sanders has a “path to winning” the competition, a sentiment echoed by coaches who believe in his talent.
Tips for Browns Fans Following the QB Battle
As the quarterback competition heats up, here’s how fans can stay engaged:
- Watch Training Camp: Follow local coverage for updates on Sanders’ progress in July.
- Check Social Media: X posts often share real-time stats and highlights from practices.
- Buy Gear: Grab a No. 12 Sanders jersey to show support, available at the Browns Pro Shop.
- Stay Patient: The Browns’ long-term QB solution may take time, but Sanders is a promising start.
Meta Description:
Shedeur Sanders’ electrifying performance at the Cleveland Browns’ 2025 minicamp has injected excitement into a team desperate for quarterback stability. Despite a fifth-round draft slide, his accuracy, confidence, and work ethic are proving he belongs in the NFL. As he competes with Flacco, Pickett, and Gabriel for the starting role, Sanders’ ability to seize limited reps could make him Cleveland’s next star. With a tough 2025 schedule ahead, including divisional matchups against the Ravens and Steelers, Browns fans have reason to hope Sanders can end the team’s quarterback carousel. Keep an eye on this rookie—he’s just getting started.
