The long wait is finally over. With the 144th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns selected Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, ending what felt like an eternity for the talented signal-caller. While Browns fans have plenty to celebrate with this pick, many across the football world are left wondering: was it fair that Sanders had to wait until Day Three to hear his name called?
Sanders, the son of NFL legend and Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, had been one of the most talked-about prospects leading into the 2025 draft cycle. His poise in the pocket, leadership qualities, and experience playing under high-pressure conditions made him an intriguing option for teams in need of quarterback depth. Yet somehow, he slid all the way to the fifth round, a development that has sparked lively debate among fans, analysts, and even current NFL players.
Throughout his college career at Colorado, Shedeur Sanders demonstrated remarkable consistency. Despite often playing behind a struggling offensive line and dealing with heavy defensive pressure, he showcased impressive accuracy, solid decision-making, and the kind of toughness scouts love to see in a quarterback. His ability to extend plays, combined with his high football IQ, made him stand out even in tough matchups.
Given those credentials, it’s easy to see why some fans and analysts believe Sanders should have been selected much earlier. Several quarterbacks with far less collegiate production and weaker résumés heard their names called before him. Whether it was concerns about the level of competition, questions about his athletic ceiling, or simply the unpredictable nature of the draft, the fact remains that Sanders had to wait far longer than many expected.
Now, the Browns have what could be considered one of the steals of the draft. Cleveland’s quarterback room just got a lot more interesting. With veterans already in place and competition heating up, Sanders will have the opportunity to learn, grow, and potentially earn his shot at meaningful snaps. His toughness and chip-on-the-shoulder mentality could serve him well in the NFL, especially in a city like Cleveland that prides itself on grit and perseverance.
For Browns fans, the excitement is palpable. Many believe that Sanders has the tools to develop into something special if given the right coaching and support system. His dynamic play style could fit well with the Browns’ offensive scheme, particularly if the team is willing to tailor parts of the playbook to his strengths.
Of course, not everything will be handed to Sanders. Like all late-round picks, he will need to prove himself every day — in the film room, on the practice field, and whenever he gets his shot during preseason games. However, his history suggests that he thrives when overlooked and underestimated.
At the end of the day, Shedeur Sanders’ journey to the NFL mirrors the kind of resilience that defines great players. While it’s easy to argue he deserved to be picked sooner, what matters most now is what he does with this opportunity. The wait may have been longer than expected, but the stage is finally set. Browns fans — and football fans everywhere — will be watching closely to see how Sanders writes the next chapter of his football story.
One thing is certain: he’s just getting started.