Polarizing Ex-Browns QB Backs Shedeur Sanders

Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel believes rookie signal-caller Shedeur Sanders has a legitimate shot to win the team’s starting job this season.

Manziel, who spent two turbulent seasons with the Browns after being selected in the first round of the 2014 NFL draft, praised Sanders’ potential during a recent episode of his podcast “Glory Daze.”

“He’s going to an opportunity now in Cleveland with a quarterback situation that, honestly, he can come out of and win the job,” Manziel said. “There’s no doubt about that. I think he’ll do well. I really do. The kid works really hard, I think he loves the game of ball. When it comes down to it, if you have a guy like that that loves the game — obviously growing up around it his whole life — I think he’ll be successful.”

Manziel also praised Sanders for how he’s been able to handle his highly-discussed draft slide, going from a potential early first-round pick to a fifth-round selection.

“That’s a highly anxious spot to be in. I mean, even for me sitting and just waiting until the end of the first round was like — I don’t think I would have been able to handle it the way that he did. It’s mad props to him to be able to face that and take it straight on.”

Shedeur Sanders Draws Praise From Browns Leaders

Sanders, the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, had a standout collegiate career at Jackson State and Colorado. Despite his slide on draft weekend, the 22-year-old has drawn praise during offseason workouts for his poise and preparation as he competes with veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, along with fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel.

“I think everyone was surprised to see him go to the fifth round, but he’s come to camp and OTAs with a great attitude,” Browns star Myles Garrett said recently. “He’s a hard-working guy; he has a great head on his shoulders. And, you know, he’s always positive, always optimistic, always keeps a smile on his face, and you like going to work with people who have that kind of attitude.”

Head coach Kevin Stefanski has echoed those sentiments, pointing out Sanders’ early commitment during offseason workouts.

“He’s in there early, he’s getting his work done. He’s working really, really hard,” Stefanski told ESPN Cleveland. “I like everything there is about Shedeur.”

Shedeur Sanders Ticketed for Speeding

Sanders has had few missteps since being selected by the Browns. However, he made headlines this week for an excessive speeding ticket. He was pulled over shortly after midnight on June 17, clocked at 101 mph — 41 miles over the posted limit. The former Colorado standout received a citation for the offense.

The Browns are aware of the incident but are unlikely to impose any punishment.

Sanders faces an uphill battle in his bid for the Browns’ starting quarterback job. But earning the role doesn’t have to happen right away. If he doesn’t win it outright by Week 1, Sanders could benefit from waiting his turn, using the regular season to continue developing and preparing for his opportunity.

Sanders and the Browns’ rookies will report for training camp on July 18. The rest of the teams will join them on July 22.