Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders' chances of taking a leap in Year 2 have increased dramatically over the past few days.
Sanders appeared in eight games for the Browns as a rookie, completing 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards with seven touchdowns and seven interceptions. He was sacked 23 times despite only making seven starts in Kevin Stefanski's offense.
"I think I did what I was able to do, and I definitely grew from a lot of things, and I got experience now," Sanders said at the end of the 2025 season. "So, I'm always the same, confidence-wise, I'm there. But like, that's not in my hands. Like, that's not my decision. I can't speak on what other people feel."
While there's no guarantee the Browns will start Sanders this fall, the front office's plan in free agency should make him awfully happy. In just the past 48 hours, Browns general manager Andrew Berry has signed offensive guards Zion Johnson (four-year, $49.5 million) and Elgton Jenkins (two-year deal worth $24 million).
The Browns also acquired Houston Texans offensive tackle Tytus Howard in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick.
Dec 21, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) warms up prior to a game against the Buffalo Bills at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images © Scott Galvin-Imagn Images
Cleveland fans are convinced these moves are being made with the idea that Sanders will be the Week 1 starter.
"This Browns offensive line is starting to shape up well," one fan said. "Shedeur might actually have a clean pocket to work with."
"Love this for the Browns, build up the protection for Shedeur," a second fan wrote.
"At least Shedeur is getting some protection," another fan commented.
"Browns doing a solid job replenishing the talent in their O-Line room. Todd Monken indicated he wanted experience there, and they now have it - with room to further upgrade the unit in the NFL Draft," a social media user added.
Who'll start for the Browns?
Haslam Sports Group partner JW Johnson recently suggested the Browns will have a quarterback competition this offseason. He mentioned Deshaun Watson as a potential option for Todd Monken's squad.
"Nobody is getting handed the keys to the car today," Johnson said. "They're going to come in and compete. Deshaun is coming off a major injury. He's done well and has battled back. It's nice to see him back. … Shedeur and Dillon had ups and downs during their rookie years. Now with a new head coach, let's see how they come in, compete and understand the offense. I think it's open competition and we are excited about it."
If Sanders wants to be the long-term starter in Cleveland, he'll need to beat out the competition this summer.
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