BREAKING: Cleveland Browns QB Shedeur Sanders to Be Named Starter Following Executive Decision by Ownership
In a stunning move that’s sending shockwaves through the NFL community, the Cleveland Browns have reportedly made the decision to name rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders their starting QB for the 2025 NFL season. According to multiple sources close to the organization, the decision came not from the coaching staff or general manager, but rather as a direct “executive decision” made by Browns ownership.
Sanders, the former Colorado standout and son of NFL Hall of Famer and Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, was selected by Cleveland in the 2025 NFL Draft. While many expected him to compete for a starting role, few anticipated he would be handed the reins this early—especially with veteran options still on the roster. Sources say the Browns’ ownership, led by Dee and Jimmy Haslam, were “fully aligned” in their belief that Shedeur is the future of the franchise, and they were not interested in waiting for a traditional quarterback development process.
Why Shedeur?
Sanders was one of the most polarizing and talked-about prospects in the 2025 draft class. At Colorado, he demonstrated elite poise, accuracy, and football IQ, throwing for over 3,800 yards and 33 touchdowns in his final college season. He also showcased leadership qualities that many scouts said reminded them of seasoned NFL veterans. Despite concerns over his transition to the speed and complexity of NFL defenses, the Browns saw something special—something they believe justifies bypassing the usual wait-and-see model for rookie quarterbacks.
“He’s a leader, he’s a winner, and he brings a level of professionalism and preparation rare in players his age,” one source close to the team said. “Ownership didn’t want to waste time. They believe the locker room will respond to him, and they believe he can win now.”
A Shift in Power Dynamics?
This decision is already raising eyebrows within league circles, particularly because of how it was made. Normally, starting quarterback decisions are left to the head coach or offensive coordinator. In Cleveland’s case, sources say head coach Kevin Stefanski was initially in favor of allowing Sanders to develop behind a veteran—likely Jacoby Brissett or another bridge quarterback—but ownership reportedly overruled that strategy.
While the front office has not yet made an official statement, early indications suggest the coaching staff has since fallen in line, though it’s unclear how much internal tension may remain. Such a top-down directive is unusual, and some analysts are concerned it could undercut the authority of the coaching staff if results don’t come quickly.
Locker Room Impact
Reactions from within the Browns locker room have been mixed, according to insiders. While some players are excited by Sanders’ talent and energy, others are reportedly “surprised” by the speed of the move and unsure of how it will play out in real-time competition. Veterans on the team may also be wary of a leadership shift, particularly if Sanders struggles early.
Sanders himself has remained poised and focused, posting a brief statement to social media after the news broke:
“All glory to God. I’m ready for the moment and grateful for the opportunity. Dawg Pound, let’s work.”
What’s Next?
The Browns have not yet made a public announcement or scheduled a press conference, but reports suggest the team will make things official during mini-camp later this week. Sanders is expected to take first-team reps immediately and will be the presumptive starter for Week 1 of the regular season.
From a broader perspective, this move is indicative of a new era in the NFL where high-profile rookies—especially those with name recognition and marketing appeal—are being fast-tracked in ways that challenge traditional player development norms. With Deion Sanders himself bringing considerable media attention to his son’s journey, the Browns appear to be leaning into the spotlight rather than shying away from it.
Whether this gamble pays off remains to be seen. If Sanders lives up to his potential, the Browns could finally find the franchise quarterback they’ve been chasing for decades. If not, the decision could further entrench the team in the kind of dysfunction that has haunted them in the past.
One thing is certain: All eyes will be on Cleveland this fall.
