The spotlight on Shedeur Sanders, the talented quarterback and son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, has intensified in recent weeks—but not necessarily for the right reasons. A former NFL player recently called out Shedeur, questioning his readiness for the professional level and suggesting that his struggles could follow him if he lands with a team like the Cleveland Browns. With the 2024 NFL Draft approaching and Shedeur’s stock fluctuating, concerns about his game, leadership, and ability to handle pressure are mounting.
This article dives deep into the criticism Shedeur Sanders is facing, analyzes his potential fit with the Cleveland Browns, and explores whether the young quarterback can overcome these challenges to succeed at the next level.
The Criticism: What’s Being Said About Shedeur Sanders?
1. Former NFL Player’s Harsh Assessment
An unnamed former NFL player recently spoke out about Shedeur Sanders, expressing doubts about his NFL readiness. Among the criticisms:
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Struggles Under Pressure: Shedeur has shown inconsistency when facing heavy defensive pressure, often holding onto the ball too long or forcing throws.
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System Quarterback Concerns: Critics argue that his success at Jackson State and Colorado was largely due to his father’s offensive schemes rather than elite NFL-caliber talent.
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Leadership Questions: Some question whether Shedeur can command an NFL locker room, especially given the perception that he’s been handed opportunities due to his last name.
2. Film Room Breakdowns Highlight Flaws
Analysts reviewing Shedeur’s tape have pointed out several areas of concern:
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Pocket Awareness: He tends to drift into pressure rather than stepping up or escaping efficiently.
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Deep Ball Accuracy: While he has a strong arm, his deep passes can be inconsistent.
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Decision-Making Under Duress: When blitzed, he sometimes makes risky throws instead of taking the safe check-down.
These issues could be magnified in the NFL, where defenses are faster and more complex.
Why the Cleveland Browns Could Be a Problematic Fit
The Cleveland Browns have been mentioned as a potential landing spot for Shedeur Sanders, given their uncertain quarterback situation beyond Deshaun Watson. However, there are several reasons why this could be a disastrous match:
1. Cleveland’s Unstable QB Environment
The Browns have been a quarterback graveyard for decades, with few signal-callers finding sustained success. The pressure on a young QB in Cleveland is immense, and if Shedeur struggles early, the fanbase and media could turn on him quickly.
2. Offensive Line Concerns
Cleveland’s offensive line has been inconsistent, and if Shedeur struggles under pressure in college, NFL pass rushes will eat him alive. The Browns’ line has shown flashes of dominance but also periods of weakness—something that could expose Shedeur’s flaws.
3. High Expectations & Comparisons
If Shedeur lands in Cleveland, he’ll immediately be compared to:
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Deshaun Watson (a proven, albeit controversial, star)
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Baker Mayfield (a former No. 1 pick who had ups and downs)
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Bernie Kosar & Otto Graham (legends of the franchise)
The weight of those comparisons could be overwhelming for a rookie.
Can Shedeur Sanders Overcome These Challenges?
Despite the criticism, Shedeur has undeniable talent. To succeed in the NFL—whether in Cleveland or elsewhere—he must address key areas:
1. Improve Pocket Presence
Working with QB coaches to refine his footwork and awareness under pressure will be crucial.
2. Prove He’s More Than a “System QB”
If he declares for the draft, Shedeur must show scouts he can thrive outside of his father’s offense.
3. Develop Thicker Skin
The NFL media is relentless. Shedeur will need to block out noise and focus on his game.
A Make-or-Break Moment
Shedeur Sanders is at a crossroads. The criticism from former players and analysts is valid, but it’s not insurmountable. If he lands in the right situation—with a patient coaching staff and strong offensive line—he could develop into a solid NFL quarterback.
However, if he ends up in a high-pressure environment like Cleveland without the proper support system, his career could mirror past Browns QB busts. The next few months—leading up to the draft and beyond—will determine whether Shedeur Sanders becomes the next great NFL quarterback or another cautionary tale.
For now, the problems aren’t over for Shedeur Sanders—and if he’s not careful, the Cleveland Browns could be the team that magnifies them.
