Shedeur Sanders confronts Cleveland journalist after preseason debut with Browns

Despite being a rookie, Shedeur Sanders has astounded many with his performance for the Cleveland Browns. At 23, he entered the preseason as the team’s fourth quarterback, yet his impressive performance in his debut against the Carolina Panthers took many by surprise. However, he still draws criticism from certain journalists. In response, the young player confronted a Cleveland reporter about this relentless scrutiny.

“Tony (Grossi), I hope you have something positive to say about me. You always say negative stuff about me. And I’m like, I didn’t do nothing to you. I’ve never seen you say anything positive about me,” Shedeur Sanders said towards the ESPN Cleveland radio host, as captured by Well Off Media, the Sanders family social media channel. Although his words were directed at the journalist, the video revealed a tone of natural laughter, making it clear that his intentions were not aggressive at all.

Shedeur has faced criticism since his early days in Colorado, with many attributing his career to nepotism. Many claimed that because his father, Deion Sanders, was the Buffaloes’ head coach, he received preferential treatment. Furthermore, being drafted in the fifth round rather than the first has heightened the criticism. In light of this, Tony Grossi labeled him a ‘developmental quarterback,’ suggesting he is not yet at the level to challenge for a starting spot.

Shedeur Sanders turning heads with his impact since joining the Browns

Although Shedeur Sanders did not arrive as one of the NFL‘s top prospects, he has proven his quality since joining the Cleveland Browns. At training camp, he impressed by completing 10 of 14 passes, including two touchdowns and no interceptions, demonstrating a solid performance. He also seized the opportunity to play against the Panthers when Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel were ruled out.

Quarterback Shedeur Sanders #12 of the Cleveland Browns drops to pass in the first half during the NFL Preseason 2025 game against the Carolina Panthers.

In his Browns debut, Sanders silenced skeptics by completing 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and throwing two touchdowns. His ability to deliver solid performances has been evident, reinforcing his potential in the team’s rotation, despite Joe Flacco being the presumed starting quarterback. Sanders’ solid outings have sparked calls from fans who are eager to see him take on a larger role this preseason.

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The young quarterback was quite self-critical of his performance in the game, making it clear what he needs to do: “I would say a C+. It’s passing because we got the win... You know pops say ‘Take advantage of the opportunity’ and I don’t feel like I did… I’m just thankful for the opportunity. I’m happy we won, but it’s definitely still time to go to work.”

Will Shedeur Sanders get his second shot to start?

Despite being self-critical of his performance, Shedeur delivered a commendable showing. This has fueled speculation that he might gain prominence in the preseason, making him the favorite to start against the Philadelphia Eagles on August 16. Head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the rumors, clarifying whether he has already selected a starting QB for this game.

“I’m not there on the game itself, by Wednesday, Thursday, I’ll have a better feel for the game, and how we’re going to handle that …. but I’m not there yet… I’m not gonna get into reps … other than to say we’re gonna continue to mix these guys. And also to say we are gonna be very intentional about our quarterbacks’ development,” Stefanski affirmed in the press conference.