Shedeur Sanders is treating the Cleveland Browns‘ quarterback competition like the only thing that matters — because, in his words, it is.
Sanders was all smiles after the first day of the team’s voluntary veteran minicamp on Tuesday. He got a healthy serving of reps as the Browns’ “open competition” at quarterback got underway.
After the session, Sanders delivered a notable statement on why he remained in Cleveland for most of the offseason.
“This is the most important thing I have to do in my life,” Sanders said with a big smile. “I have a house here. I’m comfortable. I wanted to take everything to the next level within myself. I know there are some things I want to improve and took a lot of time to self-reflect and view things from a different perspective. I think I covered a lot of ground with that.”
All three quarterbacks — Sanders, Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel — were present for the optional session. But it was Sanders who stood out, taking the most reps on Day 1.
Shedeur Sanders Making His Case Early
New Browns coach Todd Monken commended Sanders for being a frequent presence at the Browns facility during the offseason program. Watson and Gabriel, by contrast, were largely absent from the building during that period.
“It’s been great that he’s been in the building. It’s refreshing to see a player that recognizes where he’s at and where he wants to get to,” Monken said earlier this month.
Sanders made seven starts during an up-and-down rookie campaign, throwing for 1,400 yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He’s voiced strong confidence in taking a step forward while remaining open and committed to learning as he develops.
“I don’t know everything at all. I’m open to learning every day and on different things just in life. I learned how to cut my beard the other day. I try to learn something new every day because I’m not one who thinks my way is the best way,” Sanders said. “I just like to learn different points of view and perspectives. I come in here with a new mindset and am approaching life that way.”
He credited Monken for giving him additional confidence heading into next season.
“Coach just spoke life into me,” Sanders said. “And then when you do that, you just get the best result from me, honestly.”
Shedeur Sanders Calls on Browns Media to Match the Energy
Sanders also had a message for the Cleveland media, calling on them to bring winning energy as the team tries to turn the page on years of frustration.
“It’s a new vibe. The only thing we’re missing is y’all. We need y’all to have a new vibe and energy. We need some winning energy here,” Sanders said, channeling the energy of his famous father, Deion Sanders. “We can’t have too much negativity going on. If you want our players to be our best versions of ourselves, it’s a community thing. Let’s approach this with a better attitude.”
Monken has made it clear he wants to establish the quarterback hierarchy sooner rather than later. Sanders’ confidence — paired with his opportunity — has positioned him firmly in the driver’s seat.
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