Cleveland Browns leadershipis reportedly looking past Shedeur Sanders as they evaluate top quarterback prospects for the upcoming draft. Despite Sanders starting seven games during his 2025 rookie season, NFL insider Tony Paulinereports that the franchise is doing extensive homework on Alabama passer Ty Simpson. This news suggests the front office is not fully committed to Sanders as their long-term solution at the position.
Cleveland Radio Host Picks Shedeur Sanders Over Colts' Anthony Richardson in Browns QB Debate
Cleveland Radio Host Picks Shedeur Sanders Over Colts’ Anthony Richardson in Browns QB Debate (Credit: Sam Greene-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images)
Sanders finished his first professional season with a 3–4 record in seven starts. While he showed accuracy by completing over 70% of his passes in certain games, he struggled with turnovers. He threw ten interceptions against only seven touchdowns.
These inconsistent results have led head coach Todd Monken and general manager Andrew Berry to consider adding more talent to the roster.
The interest in Ty Simpson is significant because of his personal connections to the coaching staff. Simpson is known for his mobility and arm strength, attributes that Monken values for his offensive system.
The Browns currently have a crowded depth chart, including veterans Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel. Adding another high-profile rookie would make it difficult for Sanders to retain his starting role.
During a recent press conference, Andrew Berry addressed the team’s state and the importance of the quarterback position.
“We believe in competition at every spot. That’s no different than quarterback,” Berrysaid. “Deshaun’s been working really hard. He’s been working his tail off and like I said, we’re excited to go into April with all of our players across the roster because competition is something that we really believe in.”
This statement aligns with reports that the team views the 2026 season as an open competition rather than a guaranteed year for Sanders to develop.
The Browns hold multiple picks that could be used to select Simpson or another elite prospect, such as Carson Beck. If the team selects a quarterback early in the draft, Sanders may move into a backup role.
For a player selected as the future of the franchise, this scouting activity represents a major shift in the organization’s confidence.
Daniel Kelly wants Cleveland Browns to release Shedeur Sanders
Former NFL scout Daniel Kelly thinks the Cleveland Brownsshould cut Shedeur Sanders. He believes the young quarterback is a distraction for the team. Kelly wants the Browns to focus on the 2026 season without him.
The scout said Sanders makes himself a story in front of the cameras. He also pointed topoorfield performance. During his first year, Sanders threw 10 interceptions and only seven touchdowns. Kelly previously said Sanders was undraftable.
The Browns’ leadership does not agree yet. Manager Andrew Berry said the team wants to see “continued growth” from the player. Sanders started eight games last year. The team must now decide whether to keep him or draft a new quarterback.