NFL Analyst Urges Browns to Stick with Shedeur Sanders

Kiper Advises Cleveland to Pass on QB Ty Simpson

Mar. 29, 2026 at 9:12pm

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ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. has a strong recommendation for the Cleveland Browns ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft - the team should stick with Shedeur Sanders at quarterback and avoid selecting Ty Simpson.

Why it matters

The Browns are in need of a long-term solution at QB, and Kiper believes Sanders, the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, is the better choice over Simpson, who some analysts have projected as a potential first-round pick.

The details

Kiper praised Sanders' performance at Jackson State, where he has emerged as one of the top QB prospects in the 2026 class. In contrast, the analyst expressed concerns about Simpson's inconsistency and decision-making, urging the Browns to 'not go there' with the Tennessee prospect.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.

The players

Mel Kiper Jr.

A prominent ESPN NFL draft analyst known for his in-depth evaluations of college football prospects.

Shedeur Sanders

The starting quarterback at Jackson State University and son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders.

Ty Simpson

A quarterback prospect from the University of Tennessee who is projected as a potential first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Cleveland Browns

The NFL franchise based in Cleveland, Ohio that is in need of a long-term solution at the quarterback position.

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What they’re saying

“Don't go there. I would stay with Shedeur Sanders if I were the Cleveland Browns.”

— Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN NFL Draft Analyst

What’s next

The Browns will have the opportunity to select their quarterback of the future in the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place in April.

The takeaway

Kiper's strong endorsement of Shedeur Sanders over Ty Simpson suggests the Browns should prioritize the Jackson State QB as they look to find their long-term answer under center.