NFL News: Shedeur Sanders openly accepts disappointing reality about joining the Browns

When the Cleveland Browns announced Shedeur Sanders as one of their new quarterbacks, many were surprised. Now, the rookie has made a tough admission about joining the AFC North team for the 2025 NFL season.

Before the 2025 NFL Draft, many analysts expected the Browns to select Sanders in the early rounds. However, Cleveland waited until the fifth round to pick the former Colorado Buffaloes standout.

Sanders has expressed gratitude to the Browns for giving him a chance to prove himself in the NFL. Still, there’s one aspect of joining Cleveland that he’s not entirely happy about.

Shedeur Sanders opens up about a tough reality after joining the Browns

Shedeur Sanders has officially begun his journey with the Browns. On Friday, the promising quarterback wore his Cleveland jersey for the first time, impressing many on the first day of rookie minicamp.

What stood out to many was the number Sanders chose to wear. Instead of his usual No. 2, he wore No. 12, as the former was already taken by wide receiver DeAndre Carter.

After the first day of camp, Sanders addressed the change. While he admitted some disappointment in not being able to wear No. 2, he made it clear he has no intention of taking the number away from Carter.

“I’m not trying to buy anything,” a laughing Sanders told reporters on Saturday about the potential intention of buying it from Carter. “My signing bonus ain’t that high right now. Why I took number 12? It was the best available number for me. That’s it.”

Did Shedeur Sanders choose No. 12 at the Browns because of Tom Brady?

When Shedeur Sanders picked No. 12, many believed it was a tribute to Tom Brady, whom he idolizes. However, the Browns quarterback clarified that this was not the reason behind his decision.

It appears Sanders wants to avoid any controversy within the organization, especially since Brady is now a part-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders—an AFC rival. While it’s well known that Brady is both a friend and mentor to Sanders, they are now officially on opposing sides.