Shedeur Sanders entered the NFL amid high expectations as a first-round selection by the Cleveland Browns, but his future as the franchise’s quarterback remains uncertain heading into the 2026 offseason.
With the upcoming draft class widely regarded as weak at the quarterback position, the rookie could retain the starting job by default, provided he shows enough growth to convince the organization.
Through seven appearances and six starts in 2025, Sanders’ statistical output has painted a challenging picture of his early professional adjustment.
The former Colorado standout has accumulated 1,289 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, while completing just 57.4 percent of his attempts and registering a passer rating of 68.5.
These figures highlight the growing pains typical of many young quarterbacks, particularly those thrust into difficult circumstances on a struggling team.
Former Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer, now offering analysis, delivered straightforward counsel on how Sanders can elevate his performance.
“As he progresses, you have to eliminate bad football. The only way to be successful in this league is to eliminate the bad football,” Hoyer said on The Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show. “When you make that mistake, don’t make it the next time.”
Hoyer pointed to positive signs in Sanders’ most recent outing against the Pittsburgh Steelers, noting improved composure under pressure.
“I see improvement, there’s no doubt about it,” Hoyer added. “Now has to come the consistency, because I think if you can eliminate some of those head-scratching plays that he makes and keep stacking the good ones, I think he makes his case for at least having a shot to compete for that starting role next year.”
Sanders’ path to playing time unfolded unexpectedly during the season.He opened the year as the third-string option behind veterans Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel.
Flacco’s subsequent benching and trade elevated Sanders to backup status.
An injury to Gabriel on November 16 forced the rookie into action mid-game, and he has held the starting role ever since.
Cleveland’s dismal 4-12 record leaves the franchise with significant draft capital, including multiple first-round selections. The team could explore trading up to select a new quarterback prospect, though the thin class and high cost of such a move complicate that strategy.
Barring a major acquisition, Sanders appears likely to enter 2026 as the incumbent starter.
Much of that outlook could hinge on offseason decisions regarding the coaching staff, as a new regime might prefer a different direction at the position.
For now, the focus remains on Sanders’ ability to reduce turnovers and build consistency, elements Hoyer and others believe are essential for him to solidify his standing in Cleveland.
As the Browns embark on another rebuilding phase, the development of their young quarterback will be a central storyline in determining whether 2025’s difficulties evolve into long-term promise.
