Mon Sep 01 00:10:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version as a news article:

**Summary:**

Former Cleveland Browns legend Joe Thomas has defended the team’s decision to place rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders low on the depth chart, behind veterans Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel. Thomas dismisses any notion of a conspiracy against Sanders, arguing that the NFL would benefit from his popularity and talent. He emphasizes that Sanders, while possessing high potential, needs time to develop and adjust to the NFL. Thomas also points out that Sanders himself has expressed gratitude for the opportunity, regardless of his initial ranking.
**News Article:**

**Browns Legend Joe Thomas Defends Sanders Depth Chart Placement, Dismisses Conspiracy Theories**

**CLEVELAND, OH** – Cleveland Browns fans concerned about the team’s handling of rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders can rest easy, according to Browns legend Joe Thomas. Thomas has vehemently defended the team’s decision to place Sanders behind veterans Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel on the depth chart, dismissing any claims of a hidden agenda or sabotage.

“There’s no conspiracy,” Thomas stated emphatically on a recent podcast appearance. “The NFL wants eyeballs, they want great personalities like Shedeur. There’s no reason they would conspire against him.”

Thomas’s comments come after some criticism surrounding Browns coach Kevin Stefanski’s handling of Sanders in the preseason, including benching him during a two-minute drill. Following a trade that sent Kenny Pickett to the Raiders and the Browns’ subsequent naming of Flacco as the starter and Gabriel as backup, questions arose about the team’s long-term plans for Sanders.

While acknowledging Sanders’ potential (“I think he has a higher ceiling. He’s a great playmaker, he has tremendous accuracy,” Thomas noted), the former All-Pro offensive tackle stressed the need for patience. He argued that Sanders requires time to develop and adapt to the NFL level.

“Just because you have that really high ceiling doesn’t mean you can do it right now,” Thomas cautioned, highlighting the growing pains Sanders is likely to experience.

Sanders himself appears to be taking the situation in stride. “I’m thankful for who I am, I’m thankful for who my Dad is, I’m thankful for my family,” Sanders said earlier this month. “No one can make me feel bad about the blessings I do have.”

With Joe Flacco named the starter, the Browns are looking to a veteran presence under center to start the season. Time will tell if and when Shedeur Sanders gets his opportunity to shine.

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