Browns Draft Sanders After Fifth-Round Slide

Shedeur Sanders, son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, was selected 144th overall in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns after a dramatic slide, despite being projected as a first-rounder and considered the second-best quarterback in his class. Sanders, who amassed over 14,000 passing yards and won multiple college awards, fell unexpectedly amid speculation about his interviews and team preferences. The Browns had already drafted quarterback Dillon Gabriel, creating a crowded quarterback room as Deshaun Watson recovers from injury. Sanders' selection, despite the team's strong connection to his college teammate Travis Hunter and substantial draft capital, has fueled debate over the Browns' draft strategy. Sanders expressed optimism and celebrated with his family on social media after being drafted. He now faces the challenge of competing for the starting job in a franchise known for quarterback instability.