The noise around the Cleveland Browns just hit another level, and this time, it is coming from inside the media world. When a seasoned voice like Tony Rizzo starts yelling on-air, you know something is not sitting right.
And the target is Shedeur Sanders. Despite flashes, development, and legit reps late last season, the Browns still have not named him QB1. That uncertainty has people talking; however, Rizzo is straight-up fuming.
Tony Rizzo Blasts the Cleveland Browns For Not Naming Shedeur Sanders the Starting Quarterback
Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders
Jan 4, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) takes a break from pregame warmups against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
On April 1, 2026, during his ESPN Cleveland show, Rizzo went all in on the Browns’ quarterback situation. His issue was not subtle, however, it was about clarity or the lack of it. According to Rizzo, the team is dragging its feet on a decision that should already be locked in.
He has maintained this stance since the 2025 season, when he first questioned why Sanders was not getting meaningful first-team reps. Now, with a full offseason to evaluate, Rizzo believes the hesitation makes even less sense.
“HOW IN THE HELL IS SHEDEUR NOT THE STARTING QB AT THIS MOMENT??? GET THE F**K OUT OF HERE!”
𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚: ESPN's Tony Rizzo is SHOCKED that Shedeur Sanders has not been named the team's starting QB.
"HOW IN THE HELL IS SHEDEUR NOT THE STARTING QB AT THIS MOMENT??? GET THE F**K OUT OF HERE!"
😳😳😳pic.twitter.com/NFoakHIaUf
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) April 1, 2026
That explosion sums up his frustration. And honestly, it reflects a growing sentiment among parts of the fanbase.
To be fair, Sanders’ 2025 numbers were not the best. He went 3-4 as a starter, throwing for 1,400 yards with 7 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. His 68.1 passer rating ranked among the lowest for qualified QBs. However, context does matter. He stepped into a broken offense, behind a shaky line, and still managed to show poise.
Meanwhile, the Browns are not handing anything out. New head coach Todd Monken is rolling with a full-on competition heading into 2026. That includes Deshaun Watson returning from injury and fellow young QB Dillon Gabriel.
Ownership is backing that approach. Jimmy Haslam has publicly praised Sanders’ offseason work ethic, noting visible physical improvements and commitment. Except he has also made it clear that Watson will get his shot, too.
That is where the tension builds. Rizzo sees a potential franchise QB being delayed. The organization sees a room that still needs sorting out.
And here is the twist.Sanders is not backing down. He has leaned into the moment, even switching back to his iconic No. 2 jersey for 2026, signaling confidence and identity heading into Year 2.
It is all about thetraining camp now, that is where the real calls are made.But until then, the Browns are walking a fine line between developing their future and managing their past. And voices like Rizzo are not going to stay quiet while it plays out.