Shedeur Sanders’ biggest critic sends clear message to the QB after heated exchange in Browns debut

In recent months, many analysts have doubted Shedeur Sanders, and Tony Grossi is one of them. After the quarterback’s debut with the Cleveland Browns, he confronted the reporter, who has now sent a clear message in response.

Shedeur Sanders entered the NFL in a way no one expected. Initially regarded as a top-tier prospect, few saw his fall coming.

As the 2025 NFL Draft passed, his name wasn’t called — until the Browns selected him in the fifth round. Now, he’s ready to prove the entire league wrong for overlooking him.

Tony Grossi sends message to Shedeur Sanders following NFL debut

Sanders’ draft slide fueled his critics. Many doubted his ability, and seeing him fall to the fifth round only confirmed their skepticism.

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Tony Grossi was among those critics. The Browns insider had expressed doubts about Sanders’ readiness for the NFL since his college days at Colorado.

But in his Browns debut, Sanders silenced many doubters, including Grossi. After the game, the quarterback confronted the reporter — asking why he had said so many negative things about him.

Grossi was surprised by Sanders’ approach and impressed by his composure. The reporter has now revealed his response, appreciating that Sanders confronted him directly instead of airing grievances publicly during a press conference.

Quarterback Shedeur Sanders #12 of the Cleveland Browns talks to reporters during training camp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on July 25, 2025 in Berea, Ohio.

“One thing to note was that I initiated the conversation,” Tonny Grossi said, via Reice Shipley of AwfulAnnouncing.com. “He left the podium to walk to the locker room and I called his name to ask him another question. And that’s when he discussed what was on his mind. I was a little surprised he went into that because as I said, it was inaudible but I said, ‘Hey, this is your night man. This is a big night for you, have fun.’ But I appreciated the fact that he did not say what was on his mind from the podium, which other quarterbacks have done with me, which is very uncomfortable.”

Will Shedeur Sanders make the Browns’ 53-man roster?

Sanders had a solid debut with Cleveland, going 14 of 23 for 138 yards and two touchdowns against the Panthers.

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Following that performance, many fans believe he has a real chance to make the 53-man roster. His spot will likely depend on how Dillon Gabriel and Kenny Pickett perform, as the competition for the quarterback position remains fierce.