Rookie Shedeur Sanders has done enough, according to some. The 23-year-old first played in Week 11 against the Ravens and was later named the starting quarterback.

But as the Browns are working to rebuild themselves, there are doubts over Sanders’ future with the franchise. However, Mel Kiper Jr. stated that the rookie has proved himself and should continue in that position.

“I don’t know what else the kid needed to do,” he stated. 

He proceeded to say that Sanders has been receiving disproportionate hate and criticism, citing that even the reigning MVP, Josh Allen, was doubted.

“Josh Allen had haters in three years, so if Allen has haters in year two or three of his career, why should Shedeur avoid it? I am watching every play, every snap of Shedeur Sanders- he should be proud of what he had to go through and survive.”

Kiper proceeded to count the challenges Sanders had to face and that he overcame them.

“Winning that game yesterday, driving them down to get into that field goal range inside of 50 yards. To win that field goal and win it after, it could have been 21-12 had Canelo not caught the football. Drops hurt that team all year, to be able to show more mobility than anybody thought.”

“Everything about Shedeur Sanders screams (starting) quarterback!” he opined.

He further asked fans and critics to be fair in pointing out Sanders’ shortcomings, which were similar to Allen’s initial phase. Kiper also stated that Sanders played well despite the “brutal weather conditions,” and said he left some unimpressed, then it's because “you weren’t watching the same game I was.”

Rookie of the Year?

Kips, when vehemently vouching for Sanders, called him the rookie of the year. A breakout talent would not be affected that he wasn’t given any runs in the training camp. Sanders, across eight games, scored only seven touchdowns but threw 10 interceptions for 1400 yards. 

Sanders is also being held responsible for his former head coach, Kevin Stefanski’s treatment by the media. Columnist Jason Lloyd stated that Sanders would be a hindrance to the team and in the Browns’ search for a new head coach.

“I think Shedeur’s presence will be a hindrance to some,” he claimed.

“Shedeur should not be on this team next year. He's not good enough to be the starter. “Look at everything Kevin went through last year with Shedeur and some of the stupidity and nonsense that was out there. What coach would wanna sign up for that?”

Does Sanders keep receiving more support than he deserves? The Browns have much to improve if they are intent on becoming a winning team. And if so, does Sanders have a place on the roster?

Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Joyita Das