- Cleveland Browns. Kevin Stefanski issues roster warning to Browns rookie Shedeur Sanders
- Dallas Cowboys. George Pickens wasn't Cowboys' first choice: Jerry Jones wanted young Ravens receiver, it's revealed
Shedeur Sanders' NFL journey officially began this weekend as he ed the Cleveland Browns for rookie minicamp, but fans were quick to notice one striking difference between his college and professional debut.
During his time with the Colorado Buffaloes, Sanders was instantly recognizable wearing the No. 2 jersey-an emblem that became tightly woven with his personal brand and identity.
But that number is already spoken for in Cleveland. Veteran wide receiver and return specialist DeAndre Carter owns No. 2 on the Browns' roster, leaving the rookie quarterback to find a new look for his first NFL season.
While jersey numbers often serve as symbolic milestones for incoming rookies-especially quarterbacks-Sanders made it clear he's not getting caught up in the pageantry.
Sanders puts focus on football
Speaking with reporters following a minicamp session on Saturday, he offered a lighthearted response when asked whether he considered making a deal with Carter for the number.
"Nah, I'm not trying to buy anything. My g bonus ain't that high right now," Sanders said, drawing laughs from the gathered media.
It was a moment that showcased Sanders' poise and self-awareness amid the noise that tends to follow high-profile prospects-especially one with a famous last name and a strong media presence.
Despite falling to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders entered the league with national attention thanks to his impressive college resume and the shadow of his Hall of Fame father, Deion "Coach Prime" Sanders. His selection by the Browns at No. 144 overall was one of the most talked-about moments of the draft, in part because many analysts projected him as a Day 1 or Day 2 pick earlier in the year.
But the drop in draft stock-and the realities that come with it, such as lower compensation and less leverage-haven't fazed Shedeur Sanders. While a jersey number might carry marketing value and sentimental weight, the young quarterback is keeping his eye on the bigger picture.
Carter, the man currently donning No. 2 in Cleveland, is far from a household name but has carved out a respectable career through persistence and adaptability.
The 31-year-old journeyman is now on his tenth NFL team, having signed with the Browns after a stint with the Chicago Bears. His primary impact has been as a return specialist, though he's also contributed as a wideout.