Cam Newton has reignited debate within the NFL community after claiming that Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has not set rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders up for success. Appearing on national television, the former MVP doubled down on his belief that the Browns mishandled Sanders’ development and threw him into a situation destined to fail.
Newton’s comments followed Sanders’ difficult NFL debut against the Baltimore Ravens, where the rookie completed just four of sixteen passes for 47 yards and an interception. Thrust into action after starter Dillon Gabriel suffered a concussion, Sanders faced a top-tier defense without having taken meaningful first-team snaps during practice. Newton argued that Sanders’ lack of preparation was a coaching failure, not a player flaw, and suggested that Stefanski had deliberately limited the young quarterback’s opportunities.
Cleveland Browns, Shedeur Sanders, NFL
Oct 12, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) warms up before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
The controversial take drew mixed reactions from analysts and fans alike. Some agreed that the Browns’ offensive struggles and lack of supporting talent have made life difficult for any quarterback under center. Others dismissed Newton’s accusation as far-fetched, pointing out that NFL backup quarterbacks rarely receive starting reps in practice until absolutely necessary. They viewed Sanders’ performance as part of a rookie learning curve rather than evidence of internal sabotage.
In defense of Stefanski, several former players emphasized the difficulty of balancing preparation among multiple quarterbacks during an NFL season. The Browns’ offense has also been depleted by injuries and inconsistency, leaving even experienced passers at a disadvantage. Still, Newton’s comments have drawn attention to the team’s developmental approach and ongoing uncertainty under center.
Cam Newton Shares his Take on Shedeur Sanders’ Situation With Cleveland Browns
NFL, Cam Newton
Dec 26, 2021; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) looks on from the sideline during the second half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
Newton recently dropped his thoughts about Sanders’ situation in Cleveland. This can be seen in a video shared by Awful Announcing on X.
Cam Newton: “I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again: I do not think Kevin Stefanski wants Shedeur Sanders to succeed in Cleveland… if I’m Shedeur or I’m a Shedeur Sanders fan, I would not want him to take the field. Because that’s going to consistently be the display we’re… pic.twitter.com/93EL8kZsPA
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) November 17, 2025
Sanders is expected to remain in the lineup while Gabriel remains in concussion protocol, giving him another chance to show his potential. The pressure will be immense following such public scrutiny, but many see it as an opportunity for redemption.
Cleveland Browns, Shedeur Sanders, NFL
Sep 14, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) before the game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images
Regardless of how the next outing goes, Newton’s remarks have amplified discussion around coaching accountability and rookie expectations. For Sanders, every pass from here on will be judged not only by fans but through the lens of a debate extending far beyond his first start.
Cleveland Browns, Shedeur Sanders, NFL, Skip Bayless
Aug 23, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Los Angeles Rams linebacker Jamil Muhammad (45) sacks Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) during the second half at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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