Shedeur Sanders is emerging as the early frontrunner to become the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback, with his second NFL offseason already giving him an edge.
Now entering his second season in the league, Sanders is no longer adjusting to the professional level. Instead, he is building on his first year and positioning himself for a bigger role.
The Browns, under new head coach Todd Monken, are evaluating multiple options at quarterback. Early signs, however, point toward Sanders taking control and his consistency off the field is playing a major role.
Shedeur Sanders is gaining an edge in the Browns QB competition
Speaking in a clip shared by Pat McAfee Show, ESPN’s Peter Schrager explained why Sanders is currently ahead.
“I was just sitting with him [Todd Monken] at the coaches’ breakfast, so Deshaun Watson he has spoken to, but Watson I don’t think has been around as much,” Schrager said.
He added: “Shedeur has been there every single day and then Dillon Gabriel has not been there.”
Unlike a rookie trying to learn the system for the first time, Sanders already has a foundation to build on. His second year allows him to focus on refining his role rather than just adapting.
That familiarity has made his consistent presence even more valuable. Coaches are getting a clearer picture of his development. In a close competition, that early advantage matters.
Shedeur Sanders’ lead built on second-year development
Schrager also pointed out that Sanders’ approach has already put him in front at this stage of the offseason.
“They can’t play football yet, but they can all be in the building and workout. So, if I were to put a bet right now, I would say Shedeur Sanders is likely in the lead spot right now,” Schrager stated.
As a second-year player, Sanders is expected to take a step forward, and his offseason work reflects that expectation.
He is not learning from scratch. He is competing to lead. That shift in mindset is what separates him in this early phase of the battle.
If he maintains this trajectory, Sanders could enter the new season as the Browns’ starting quarterback.
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