

The Cleveland Browns are stirring up their quarterback room, and it seems they might be making space for rookie Shedeur Sanders to shine. Selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the former Colorado Buffaloes star signed a four-year, $4.6 million contract, bringing high expectations despite his draft slide.
However, with a crowded roster featuring veterans Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Deshaun Watson, plus fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel, the Browns face a tough decision. Reports suggest the team could cut or trade Flacco and Pickett, signaling a potential shift to prioritize Sanders as a long-term option, even if Watson remains a wildcard.
Shedeur Sanders reveals truth about Deshaun Watson in Browns QB room
Sanders, who threw for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns in 2024 at Colorado, has the talent to lead, earning praise from NFL legend Kurt Warner as the most accurate quarterback in his draft class. Yet, the Browns’ current depth chart is a mess. Deshaun Watson, once seen as the franchise’s cornerstone, might return from injury in 2025, but his nine-month recovery timeline and fan discontent-stemming from off-field controversies and inconsistent play-make his role uncertain.
Flacco, at 40, led the Browns to the 2023 playoffs but lacks long-term value, with some analysts predicting his exit by September. Pickett, acquired via trade, is the betting favorite to start Week 1, but his inconsistent performance has analysts like Chad Gagnon forecasting a midseason benching, potentially against Miami in October. This volatility suggests the Browns are ready to take a hard look at their future, and Sanders might be it.
Browns QB Controversy: Pickett, Gabriel, Sanders and Flacco
Is Shedeur the future for the Browns in 2025?
The Browns’ strategy appears to be about rebuilding with fresh talent. Keeping Flacco and Pickett, both of whom have struggled to cement their roles, might hinder Sanders’ development. Gabriel, a third-round pick, adds competition, but Sanders’ higher ceiling-evidenced by his NCAA-leading 74% completion rate-makes him the better bet for a franchise desperate for stability.
ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky even argued on the Pat McAfee Show that starting Sanders or Gabriel over the veterans would be the smarter move, reflecting a growing sentiment that the Browns need a reset. By trimming the roster, the Browns can focus on nurturing Sanders, giving him reps to grow into the “grown QB” role coach Kevin Stefanski might envision.
This potential shake-up isn’t without risks, but the Browns seem poised to bet on Sanders’ potential over the uncertainty of Watson, Flacco, and Pickett. As training camp looms, all eyes will be on whether Cleveland clears the way for their rookie to take the reins, possibly marking the start of a new era for the team.
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