As the proceedings of the 2025 NFL Draft reached its fifth phase, the Baltimore Ravens determined that it was opportune to halt the descent of Shedeur Sanders. The Ravens reportedly had intentions of securing Sanders during the fifth phase, but the quarterback demurred, according to insights from ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
The Ravens — possessing the third selection in the fifth phase — reportedly strategized to utilize that pick on Sanders. However, prior to the team’s formal submission of the card announcing Sanders, the Colorado quarterback conveyed to the team his disinclination to participate on a roster where prospects for playing time were limited, according to Schefter.
With Lamar Jackson firmly established as the team’s primary quarterback, Sanders’ opportunities to enter the field would be contingent upon unforeseen injuries. Furthermore, even with exceptional performance, Sanders’ ascent to usurp Jackson’s starting role appeared improbable. Consequently, Sanders opted against affiliating with the Ravens.
His preference was honored. Subsequently, the Cleveland Browns selected Sanders three picks later, thereby concluding his descent. He commenced the 2025 NFL season as the team’s third-string quarterback, positioned behind Joe Flacco and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel.
While Sanders faces the task of ascending the team’s hierarchy, the prospect of securing a starting role is comparatively closer in Cleveland. Flacco has enjoyed a noteworthy resurgence in recent seasons, but at 40 years of age, his tenure may be finite. Should he falter or the team’s playoff aspirations diminish, the Browns are likely to consider the future and relegate Flacco to the bench.
However, Sanders’ ascension to a starting role necessitates surpassing Gabriel. Both players showcased moments of brilliance during the preseason, but Gabriel’s performance in the final preseason match solidified his position as the second-string quarterback behind Flacco.
Prior to the 2025 NFL Draft, numerous analysts evaluated Sanders as the more promising prospect. NFL teams exhibited divergent behavior, contributing to Sanders’ downward trajectory in the draft. Following several weeks of practice sessions, the Browns perceive Gabriel as the superior player presently. This assessment could evolve during the season, or in the event of Gabriel’s struggles upon assuming the starting role.
If Sanders’ primary concern was playing time, his decision might be deemed judicious. His path to securing a starting role appears more straightforward in Cleveland. However, there might have been inherent advantages in Sanders joining Baltimore. The Ravens are widely regarded as a more stable organization, and John Harbaugh is considered among the premier coaches in the NFL. Sanders’ playing time with the team might have been limited, but it could have proven to be a more conducive environment for his development.
Instead, Sanders finds himself aligned with an organization seeking stability at the quarterback position. The potential rewards could be substantial if Sanders distinguishes himself upon receiving his opportunity. Conversely, failure could result in a familiar narrative in Cleveland.
