Panthers legend Cam Newton offers honest take on Shedeur Sanders following NFL Draft

Cam Newton is widely regarded as one of the most iconic players in Carolina Panthers history. While he never managed to capture a Super Bowl title, he led the franchise to four straight playoff appearances and helped elevate its national profile. Now working in a media role, Newton remains an influential voice in the NFL conversation. Following the 2025 NFL Draft, he weighed in on one of the most talked-about prospects: Shedeur Sanders.

Despite considerable hype surrounding the former Colorado quarterback, Sanders slid in the draft and wasn’t selected until the fifth round by the Cleveland Browns. According to multiple reports, some team owners expressed concerns about Sanders’ behavior during his college career, which may have influenced his fall on draft boards.

Still, the Browns saw significant potential in Sanders and decided to give him a shot. The rookie has already embraced the opportunity, saying he’s focused on earning his place in Cleveland and preparing for the challenges of his first NFL season.

Given that context, the Panthers legend shared comments about Sanders’ personality drew attention. On his show 4th & 1, the former MVP said he wants to hold the young quarterback accountable: “Shedeur—I’ve got to hold him accountable. He’s always got this mean look on his face, like he’s always snobbish, you know what I’m saying?”

Tom Brady reacts to Shedeur Sanders’ fifth-round selection

During an appearance on Good Morning America, former New York Giants standout Michael Strahan shared Tom Brady’s thoughts on Shedeur Sanders being selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Strahan said he watched the draft alongside the seven-time Super Bowl champion and described Brady’s live reaction to the moment.

“I spent time with Tom Brady this past weekend and we watched the draft. As Tom said, ‘He’s an example that it doesn’t matter when you’re picked,’” Strahan recalled, underscoring Brady’s belief in Sanders’ potential following his selection by the Cleveland Browns.

Ward welcomed Sanders to Cleveland

Sanders finally secured a destination, and it’s Cleveland. The former Colorado quarterback is set to join the Browns, where he’ll share the locker room with star cornerback Denzel Ward. Shortly after the NFL Draft, Ward took to social media to welcome Sanders to the Dawg Pound.

“Shedeur Sanders is time to be legendary! Let’s do it!,” Ward posted on social media, adding a fire emoji. Without question, Sanders’ arrival has quickly become one of the most talked-about storylines of this year’s draft.