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What started as a typical rookie minicamp has turned into a major quarterback controversy in Cleveland. Shedeur Sanders, the fifth-round pick out of Colorado, is not just holding his own, he's outperforming expectations and outshining higher-drafted peers. Most notably, third-rounder Dillon Gabriel.
Sanders' college résumé is impressive: over 14,000 ing yards, 134 touchdowns, and a 70.1% completion rate. But it's his on-field presence and relentless work ethic that have the Dawg Pound buzzing. According to NFL Rookie Watch, Sanders "left jaws on the ground," while Gabriel's early reps reportedly had observers "with their heads in their hands."
What makes Sanders different? It's more than just stats
- Stayed 20 minutes after practice for extra reps with skill players.
- Threw an 81.5-yard bomb that went viral online.
- Posted a 158.4 er rating in college with a 74% completion rate during his final year at Colorado.
- Holds NIL deals worth over $6 million.
It's this combination of talent, preparation, and swagger that has scouts whispering about a QB1 shake-up. One team insider believes the competition could "quickly boil down" to Sanders and veteran Joe Flacco, with Gabriel sliding out of the picture altogether.
Stefanski's gamble on Gabriel might backfire
Head coach Kevin Stefanski was expected to groom Gabriel into a future starter. After all, the Oklahoma star came into the league with 18,722 ing yards and 155 touchdowns. But in minicamp, Gabriel appeared hesitant and over-analytical, while Sanders played fast, confident, and sharp, just like he did at Colorado.
Sanders, whose father is NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, wears No. 12 not as a tribute, but as a symbol of his own underdog story. After falling to Day 3 in the draft, even Tom Brady reached out, texting him to "use it as motivation." It seems he has.
What's next for Cleveland's QB room?
With Joe Flacco's veteran experience, Kenny Pickett's potential, and Gabriel's collegiate dominance, the Browns' quarterback room was already crowded. But now, with Sanders rising fast, the team faces a tough but exciting choice.
Cleveland has been searching for its quarterback of the future for decades. If minicamp is any indication, that future might already be here, and his name is Shedeur Sanders.