Mon May 05 18:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Surprise Fifth-Round Pick: Shedeur Sanders Lands with Cleveland Browns

**BEREA, Ohio** – Shedeur Sanders, son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders and a record-setting quarterback at the University of Colorado, experienced a stunning fall in the 2025 NFL Draft, ultimately landing with the Cleveland Browns as a fifth-round pick (144th overall). While initially projected as a potential first-round pick, Sanders’ unexpected slide raised eyebrows throughout the draft weekend.

The Browns, who held the No. 2 overall pick, ultimately traded down, selecting Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham with their new selection. They also drafted quarterback Dillon Gabriel in the second round, a move that further fueled speculation surrounding Sanders’ draft position.

Cleveland Browns General Manager Andrew Berry explained the team’s decision to select Sanders late, stating that they believed his value was mispriced relative to his draft position. Berry emphasized that the acquisition cost was low and that the Browns believe Sanders can outperform his draft slot.

Reports suggest that Sanders’ interactions with some teams during the pre-draft process may have contributed to his fall. While some scouts reported less-than-stellar interviews, Berry countered that the Browns had a positive experience with Sanders, highlighting his work ethic and character. Sanders himself acknowledged that he could have handled certain aspects of the pre-draft process differently.

Despite his late selection, Sanders will have the opportunity to compete for the starting quarterback position in Cleveland. He joins a quarterback room that includes veteran Joe Flacco, 2022 first-round pick Kenny Pickett, Gabriel, and Deshaun Watson, who is expected to miss a significant portion of the 2025 season due to injury. Coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Sanders will receive a fair shot to compete.

The Browns’ selection of Sanders concludes a draft cycle marked by both surprising trades and unexpected player movements, leaving the team with a renewed sense of hope in their search for a consistent quarterback solution. Sanders, already immersed in community outreach in Cleveland, is prepared to prove his doubters wrong.

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