The Browns' QB1 competition continues, with quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson now preparing for the training camp in July. However, if reports are to be believed, talks about a potential Sanders trade are swirling around the NFL.

ESPN Cleveland’s Tony Rizzo reported earlier this week that the Browns have discussed possible trade options with teams like the Saints or the Colts for the young QB.

“There are talks, ongoing calls, about the availability of Shedeur Sanders,” said Rizzo. “I don’t think the four quarterbacks are going to camp on July 28. I don't. Nothing is imminent, but the calls are being made and I think it's probably in the best interest of both parties.”

These reports about a possible Sanders trade come after a whirlwind year for the QB who was the fifth-round pick during the 2025 NFL Draft. In his first year, he played eight games, of which he started seven.

Shedeur Sanders has shown visible progress during the offseason, gaining momentum over Watson. Head coach Todd Monken also praised the 24-year-old for the progress he’s made during the OTAs and the minicamp and for becoming “more decisive”.

Sanders registered 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns against 10 interceptions and a 56.6% completion rate. 

Off the field, Sanders recently graduated with a Sociology degree from Colorado, returned to his trademark No.2 jersey and broke NFLPA records by earning $17.7 million in group licensing revenue, per Bernadette Giacomazzo of Complex.

Rizzo had earlier endorsed Sanders for this season. He believes that he deserved to play this season, even if it's with a different franchise.

“This year should be the year to see about Shedeur. Let this kid play. Let’s see what this kid can do. I’m not saying hand the guy the job. I’m saying, see what you got in this guy,” Rizzo said.

While Rizzo concluded by saying that while nothing is imminent, former NFL players have voiced their thoughts on Sanders’ move from Cleveland.

Former NFL players express support for Sanders’ trade

Following reports that Sanders may depart from the franchise, former NFL players have shared that the young QB must be the starter for any other team.

“Let Shedeur go. He’s a starter,” exclaimed two-time Super Bowl Champion LeSean McCoy on Speakeasy.

McCoy further added that with Watson in Cleveland, Shedeur won’t get as many opportunities. He shared that Sanders should be on another team where he’s running the show. He suggested that the Cardinals could become Sanders' next landing spot.

Former NFL player Dez Bryant also agreed that being traded would be good for Sanders. He paired the QB with the New Orleans Saints.

“I think he’s a franchise QB and getting him out of Cleveland will be a plus for him... The Saints would be a great fit for him,” said Bryant.

Mike Moraitis of The Big Lead also identified the Indianapolis Colts as a possible landing option for Sanders if the Browns go ahead with the trade.

Should the Browns keep Sanders or explore a trade?

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Written by

Naomi Grace

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit