What's Happening?
Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders was nearly drafted by the Baltimore Ravens during the 2025 NFL Draft. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Ravens intended to select Sanders in the fifth round. However, Sanders communicated his preference not to join the Ravens, citing the presence of Lamar Jackson, the team's two-time MVP starting quarterback, as a reason. Sanders wanted to compete for a starting position, which he felt was unlikely with Jackson on the roster. Consequently, the Ravens chose offensive tackle Carson Vinson instead, and Sanders was picked by the Browns three selections later. Sanders is currently the third-string quarterback for the Browns, behind Joe Flacco and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel.
Why It's Important?
This development highlights the strategic decisions players and teams make during the draft process. For Sanders, the decision to avoid the Ravens was driven by a desire for career advancement and playing time, which he believed would be limited behind a star quarterback like Lamar Jackson. For the Browns, acquiring Sanders adds depth to their quarterback lineup, potentially providing a future starter. The Ravens, on the other hand, had to adjust their draft strategy, impacting their roster composition. This situation underscores the competitive dynamics within the NFL, where player preferences and team needs must align for successful draft outcomes.
What's Next?
As the NFL season progresses, Sanders will aim to prove his worth and climb the Browns' quarterback depth chart. The Browns and Ravens are set to face each other in Week 2, adding intrigue to Sanders' decision. The Ravens will continue to rely on Lamar Jackson, with Cooper Rush as the backup, while Sanders will focus on developing his skills and seizing any opportunities that arise. The outcome of the Browns-Ravens matchup could further influence perceptions of Sanders' decision and his future prospects in the league.
