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Shedeur Sanders reported for duty at Cleveland Browns rookie minicamp with something to prove.
Once projected as a first-round talent, the former Colorado quarterback had to wait far longer than expected to hear his name called-falling all the way to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
But instead of dwelling on the disappointment, Sanders has chosen to embrace the challenge and draw motivation from a legendary source: Tom Brady.
Speaking to the media after his first day of practice in Cleveland, Sanders addressed the comparisons directly.
"My story is gonna be similar," Sanders said. "I was a late-round draft pick, but we're here now, so none of that stuff matters ... just excited to be here and ready to work."
The quote reflects a quiet confidence and a belief in long-term success, even after a turbulent draft weekend.
Sanders' comments echoed Brady's own origin story-selected 199th overall in the 2000 draft and dismissed by many, only to later become the most decorated quarterback in NFL history.
Opportunity knocks in Cleveland's open quarterback competition
While Sanders' journey will ultimately be his own, there are intriguing parallels between him and the future Hall of Famer.
Much like Brady, who was overlooked early in his career, Sanders enters the league carrying a chip on his shoulder. And in Cleveland, he may have a clearer path to the field than Brady initially did in New England.
Brady began his career behind veteran Drew Bledsoe, only stepping into the spotlight after a serious injury forced the starter to the sidelines. In contrast, Sanders s a Browns roster that doesn't have a firmly established long-term solution at quarterback.
With Deshaun Watson continuing to face questions surrounding form and health, and multiple other ers competing for backup roles, Sanders has a chance to carve out a role much sooner than expected for a Day 3 selection.
His fall in the draft was one of the biggest talking points of the weekend. Analysts cited a combination of concerns-ranging from pocket awareness and mechanics to his off-field brand and decision not to participate in the NFL Combine.
Still, his college production and leadership at Colorado under the spotlight of national attention remain undeniable. In two seasons, Sanders threw for over 6,800 yards and 56 touchdowns, becoming one of the most visible quarterbacks in college football.
The 22-year-old also received words of encouragement from Brady himself following the draft, which likely only strengthened his resolve. For Sanders, that vote of confidence was not just validation-it was a spark.
Now in Cleveland, he'll be given the chance to build something new-away from the noise, the projections, and yes, even the expectations tied to his famous last name.
As minicamp begins, Sanders' focus is clear: earn respect, compete for reps, and prove that draft position doesn't determine destiny. Just like Brady once did.