Shedeur Sanders’ NFL debut did more than disappoint on the scoreboard — it reignited a storm of controversy as comparisons to Colin Kaepernick resurfaced online following his rough start. The Spun
Shedeur Sanders’ Rocky First Game
Bomani Jones shoots down Shedeur Sanders-Colin Kaepernick comparison: 'Ridiculous thing to say' - Yahoo Sports
Bomani Jones shoots down Shedeur Sanders-Colin Kaepernick comparison: ‘Ridiculous thing to say’ – Yahoo Sports
In his highly anticipated first regular-season appearance for the Cleveland Browns, Sanders completed just 4 of 16 passes for 47 yards, threw one interception, and was sacked multiple times. That dismal performance gave him a passer rating of 13.5, the worst among quarterbacks making their debut with at least 15 attempts since 2012. (The Spun)
After the game, Sanders didn’t make excuses:
“I don’t think I played good at all … it was a rough day, overall,” he said.
He added that getting hit again — his first time since college — was “good in a weird way” because it confirmed he was really back on the field.
The Kaepernick Comparison Goes Viral
Just months earlier, media figure Stephen A. Smith raised eyebrows by suggesting that Sanders’ slide in the 2025 NFL Draft wasn’t just bad evaluation — it was collusion, drawing parallels to Kaepernick’s controversial exit from the league.
Smith wrote on X that the situation felt like “Kaepernick-level collusion,” arguing that NFL owners had worked against Sanders. (The Spun)
That theory has gained traction again on social media following Sanders’ difficult debut, with many users revisiting the idea that his career is being unfairly obstructed.
Coaches Take Heat, Sanders Gets Called Out
Critics haven’t only targeted the league — some are pointing fingers at the Browns’ coaching staff, too. Former NFL MVP Cam Newton publicly questioned whether head coach Kevin Stefanski truly wants Sanders to succeed, citing what he believes was inadequate preparation for the rookie.
Others have echoed that sentiment, noting Browns teammates reportedly didn’t recognize Sanders’ cadence, which raised serious red flags around his readiness.
NFL Fans Are Having a Field Day
The moment has sparked a firestorm across NFL discourse:
Some fans argue that Sanders’ struggles simply prove he was overrated and that the Kaepernick comparison was exaggerated.
Others see his draft slide and tough debut as part of a larger systemic issue.
Many remain hopeful, emphasizing that he’s still early in his career and capable of growth.
Reddit threads watched by long-time NFL observers highlight a recurring point: pundits hyped Sanders heavily during the draft, and now the hype meets harsh reality.
What’s Next for Sanders
Despite the criticism and poor performance, Sanders said he remains confident:
“I know I’m made for it … seeing what it’s actually like,” he told reporters. The Spun
The Browns might give him another shot down the road, especially as starter Dillon Gabriel recovers from injury — but the pressure is now heavier than ever.
If Sanders can rebound, he’ll need to prove the Kaepernick comparisons are just noise. If he can’t … they may became a bold, lasting part of his NFL narrative.
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