Shedeur Sanders believes he is the Cleveland Browns‘ starting quarterback.
In his first year in Cleveland after getting picked in the fifth round by the team, he fought from the third-string to taking over halfway through the season due to an injury to fellow rookie QB Dillon Gabriel.
He became the first Browns rookie QB to win their debut in over a quarter-century. He made the Pro Bowl, albeit amid a firestorm of criticism. But he did things that Browns QBs don’t ever do in their career in his first, when he wasn’t even supposed to start.
But the Browns don’t see him as their current leader under center.
It’s an open competition for new head coach Todd Monken, who rolled into town laying down the law that while he loves the defense, the offense must advance if they want to make the postseason.
That sentiment has continued through the first month of the offseason on the verge of free agency, as offensive coordinator Travis Switzer reaffirmed that all candidates in the QB competition have an equal chance to win it.
To the surprise of some, Deshaun Watson is a major factor in the battle, with Switzer talking up the former Texans QB as a key player in their plans heading into training camp.
"We're excited about Deshaun,” Switzer said to Cleveland.com. “Anytime you have a guy who has had the success that he's had, he's got to be part of the equation as far as when we talk about competing for that job. And then, Shedeur, what he was able to show last year. He's still young. He has a lot of growth that he can still achieve, especially year one to year two. … I think there's a lot to be excited about in that room."
If Sanders wants the starting position, he won’t only have to outdo Watson, but also a healthy Gabriel as well. Switzer was also “excited” about the former Oregon Ducks QB. Aside from those two, there’s also always the chance the Browns go out and get another veteran signal-caller in free agency or pick up another rookie in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Shedeur Sanders believes he is the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback.
Let’s see if he’s right come September.
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