Shedeur Sanders has yet to start a regular-season game for the Browns, but the rookie has already generated significant attention.

NFL analyst Asante Samuel addressed the situation on his Say What Needs To Be Said podcast on his YouTube channel. He pointed to Sanders’ significant influence on Browns fans.

The former NFL star believes that connection could have major financial implications for Cleveland and the league:

"But I just want to say the Shedeur Sanders effect is starting to take place in Cleveland, and we haven't even made it to the first game of the season yet. Now the amount of money the NFL and the Cleveland Browns will miss out on by not starting Shedeur is tragic."

Samuel's claim suggests Sanders' impact could extend well beyond the field. Moreover, ticket demand offers an early indication of his commercial appeal.

Browns fans appear to have made their feelings clear

The numbers surrounding Cleveland's home games suggest Shedeur Sanders has generated significant interest beyond the quarterback competition.

According to podcaster Dave Grendzynski, ticket prices across several Browns home games dropped after Todd Monken named Deshaun Watson the Week 1 starter.

The Carolina Panthers game fell from $55-$64 to $35. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers matchup dropped from $88-$98 to $70. Baltimore tickets fell from $58-$73 to $45, while Houston tickets were reportedly available for as little as $19.

That timing is notable. Browns fans had already shown a willingness to pay a premium to see Sanders during the preseason, with prices reportedly reaching $324.

For Samuel, the figures reinforce his belief that Sanders' value extends beyond the field.

Written by

Sayantan