The Cleveland Browns have yet to declare a starting quarterback. Apart from the competition for the spot raging between him and Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders was facing a threat from another quarterback. 

When Brendan Sorsby’s plea for an injunction over his eligibility to play for another year was under review, he was eligible for the NFL Supplemental Draft. The 22-year-old might’ve been on the Browns’ radar this summer, but the latest development has ruled out any plausible plans.

On June 8, Lubbock judge Ken Curry granted Sorsby a temporary injunction against the NCAA. The governing body was investigating Sorsby of the Texas Tech Red Raiders for serious guideline violations.

According to a May 18 report by The Athletic, “Sorsby is under investigation by the NCAA for g******* violations, including b*** he placed on Indiana football while Sorsby was a member of the Hoosiers in 2022.”

The decision to reinstate Sorsby is a historic one and advantageous for Sanders. The former Colorado Buffs QB has been vying for the starting position since his debut season. The 24-year-old was thrust into action after being benched for the first 10 weeks.

He replaced Dillon Gabriel from Week 10 after he sustained a concussion and recorded 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He is once again facing the possibility of being overshadowed, but this time it is veteran QB Watson. 

Watson, 30, is returning for his last season with the Browns as his five-year, $230 million contract expires in 2026. His three Pro Bowl nods and seven years of experience have pitched him as the better choice in the race. 

However, Sanders has supporters backing him too, including a former Super Bowl champion.

Leonard Fournette Sends Strong Message In Support Of Shedeur Sanders

Quarterback Shedeur Sanders’ NFL journey has been tumultuous. The ongoing QB1 competition has increased uncertainty around his place on the roster, causing Leonard Fournette to speak in his favor.

“He never said anything to hurt his relationship with the players, with the coaches,” said Fournette. “He did, I believe, what a QB1 should do. He stood there.”

He was talking about Sanders in an episode of the 4th And South podcast, co-hosted by former Browns wide receiver Jarvis Landry. 

“All the crazy questions, he answered them respectfully, and some questions he said, ‘Man, like come on, man. Why would you do that? Why would you ask me that, knowing it can jeopardize my relationship with the Cleveland Browns, with my head coach?” 

Sanders and the Browns are entering this season with Todd Monken, who replaced former head coach Kevin Stefanski. The Browns ended with a 5-12 record last season and a quarterback shuffle, leading to some harsh questions from the media. 

Whether Sanders starts this season or not remains uncertain. What are your thoughts?

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar