Shedeur Sanders Emerges as Browns' Franchise QB

Quarterback drafted in 6th round secures starting job amid Deshaun Watson uncertainty

Apr. 16, 2026 at 5:58am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a quarterback in motion, with sharp planes of orange and brown representing the Cleveland Browns' uniform colors.A cubist interpretation of the Browns' new franchise quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, showcasing his dynamic playmaking ability.Cleveland Today

The Cleveland Browns have found their franchise quarterback in Shedeur Sanders, who was drafted in the 6th round of the 2025 NFL Draft after being projected as a first-round pick. Sanders waited patiently as the Browns considered other options like Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel, but has now solidified himself as the team's long-term starter.

Why it matters

The Browns have struggled to find stability at the quarterback position in recent years, with the Deshaun Watson situation still unresolved. Sanders' emergence provides much-needed certainty at the game's most important position as the team looks to build for the future.

The details

After being projected as a first-round pick, Shedeur Sanders surprisingly fell to the 6th round of the 2025 NFL Draft, where he was selected by the Cleveland Browns. The team had been considering veteran options like Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel, but Sanders has now firmly established himself as the franchise quarterback, impressing coaches and teammates with his poise, decision-making, and playmaking ability.

  • Shedeur Sanders was drafted by the Browns in the 6th round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
  • Sanders has now secured the starting quarterback job for the 2026 season.

The players

Shedeur Sanders

A quarterback drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 6th round of the 2025 NFL Draft, who has now emerged as the team's franchise quarterback.

Deshaun Watson

The Browns' previous starting quarterback, whose future with the team remains uncertain due to ongoing legal issues.

Joe Flacco

A veteran quarterback the Browns considered signing as a stopgap option before Sanders solidified the starting job.

Dillon Gabriel

Another quarterback the Browns considered signing as a potential starter before Sanders took over the job.

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The takeaway

The Browns' decision to draft Shedeur Sanders in the 6th round and give him a chance to prove himself has paid off, as he has now firmly established himself as the team's long-term starting quarterback. This provides much-needed stability and optimism for the Browns' future after years of uncertainty at the position.