Shedeur Sanders Declines Ravens, Drafted by Browns as Third-String QB

Shedeur Sanders, a highly touted quarterback from Colorado, experienced a surprising slide to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft despite expectations of being an early pick. Reports revealed that Sanders declined an opportunity to be drafted by the Baltimore Ravens, an AFC Super Bowl contender, due to the presence of Lamar Jackson, which would limit his chances to start. Instead, Sanders was selected by the Cleveland Browns, a team with a crowded quarterback room including Deshaun Watson, Joe Flacco, and rookie Dillon Gabriel, putting Sanders' playing time in jeopardy. Experts and former players like Daunte Culpepper have expressed surprise at Sanders' draft fall, believing he has the talent to become a significant NFL player, though concerns about his decision-making and the influence of his father, Deion Sanders, have been noted. Despite missing the chance to learn under Ravens coach John Harbaugh and sitting behind an elite quarterback, Sanders’ choice reflects a preference for potential immediate opportunity over long-term development. His NFL future remains uncertain given the challenging roster situation with the Browns.