The Cleveland Browns are facing a major divide between public hopes and private reality regarding their young quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Team leadership has not named him the starter for the upcoming season. The silence around him has started rumors about what might happen next with the team.
Jason Lloyd of The Athletic caused massive controversy onThe Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show. He shared harsh feedback he received from sources within the league. Lloyd expressed serious concerns about the young player’s work ethic.
Cleveland Browns QB Shedeur Sanders
Jan 4, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) passes against the Cincinnati Bengals during the second quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
“I’ve talked to enough people and heard a lot that isn’t very good,” Lloyd said.
The reporter claimed the quarterback struggles with basic professional habits. These include watching game film and recognizing defensive coverages. Lloyd noted a massive gap between what fans believe and what team insiders say.
“I have never seen a story like this where what is said behind the doors and the public narrative is this far off,” Lloyd added.
He stated that the player had to be taught how to study. Lloyd has covered sports for 25 years and called the situation stunning. He refused to ignore the negative reports despite facing backlash from fans.
Sanders finally broke his silence on social media. He posted a message on X to address the growing criticism. He urged his followers to ignore the outside pressure.
“Learn to value the opinions of those who care about you, not the noise from everyone else,” Sanderssaid.
Learn to value the opinions of those who care about you, not the noise from everyone else
— Shedeur Sanders (@ShedeurSanders) March 13, 2026
The Browns now face a difficult choice. They must decide if the reports are true or if Sanders can lead the team. Fans are waiting to see if the 1st round pick can prove his critics wrong on the field.
The tension in Cleveland remains high as training camp approaches. Both the media and the front office are watching Sanders closely. His performance will soon determine if Lloyd was right.
Shedeur Sanders struggles with Cleveland Browns in 2025
Shedeur Sandersfinished his first year with an 18.9 QBR. This was the worst mark in the league. He started 7 games and won 3. He threw 10 interceptions and only 7 touchdowns. His completion rate of 56.6 percent also ranked last among qualifying players.
The quarterback faced heavy pressure throughout the season. He was sacked 23 times in 8 games. Opponents pressured him on 44.1 percent of his dropbacks. This was the second-highest rate in the NFL.
Coaches simplified the playbook to help him. However, he still struggled to read complex defenses. His passer rating stayed low at 68.1. He often relied on making plays outside of the team structure.
This style became less effective as the season continued. Despite these poor stats, he earned a spot in the Pro Bowl as a replacement player. He ended the year with 1,400 passing yards.