Shedeur Sanders is one of the most promising quarterbacks in the NFL. He is also expected to be one of the emerging quarterbacks next season. Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2025, he had a good rookie season and managed to play many games.
Ahead of next season, Sanders already has some achievements. Despite some early success, he is a doubt to be a starter for next season. Though the franchise is doing everything it can to support him.
Browns GM Andrew Berry builds offense around Shedeur Sanders
Sanders played in 8 games last season, and threw for 1,400 yards and 7 touchdowns with 10 interceptions while also rushing for 169 yards and a touchdown. However, he is not expected to be the clear choice for the starting role, with veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson apppearing to be the clear choice. Head coach Todd Monken has also refused to choose a main starting quarterback at this point.
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
Despite doubt over whether he will start, Sanders is still expected to play a big role in the franchise’s future. He is being considered one of the faced of the organization. Browns General Manager Andrew Berry has done a big job this offseason, building the team around Sanders. It came after a troubling 2025 campaign. Just days before, Shedeur’s father Deion Sanders complained that his son did not get enough support.
Firing head coach Kevin Stefanski, they replaced him with former Baltimore Ravens’ offensive coordinator Monken. He has a reputation for developing young quarterbacks and creating productive offenses. He could hugely help Sanders to develop into a better quarterback.
Furthermore, the franchise added multiple veteran additions in free agency plus several draft picks to improve the offensive line. They have signed players like Tytus Howard, Zion Johnson, Elgton Jenkins and others. They also added new talent in wide receivers such as KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston in the Draft, and signed veteran Tylan Wallace in free agency.
All of these decisions have been made to help bolster the quarterback, which could be Sanders. However, one person does not think he would be starting.
Browns GM Andrew Berry builds offense around Shedeur Sanders
Recently, Browns legend and offensive tackle Joe Thomas felt that Watson was likely to start over Shedeur. Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show, he said, “Coming out of the offseason, it seems like Deshaun Watson is probably going to be the guy going into training camp as the starter. He looks pretty healthy coming off that Achilles tear that he had. And I think the experience that he has playing football, the arm looks like it’s still there. The legs look like they’ve come back, and that’s one thing that Shedeur doesn’t exactly bring you right now is the ability to scramble.”
He added, “He’s not exceptional at using his legs to get a first down. Although he is very good at scrambling to make plays to be able to throw the football. I think Deshaun right now just gives that offense a little bit more versatility to be able to open things up and be more dynamic. And I think he’ll probably be the guy. If I had to bet who’s going to start more games this season for the Browns, it would be Deshaun.”
Shedeur Sanders will have to prepare as the 2026 NFL season is approaching soon, and will hope to get the starting role.
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