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The Cleveland Browns are in a tight spot. After a rocky start to the 2024 season—marked by injuries, inconsistency, and a QB carousel that hasn’t settled into a clear leader—the team is now betting big on a young, high-potential quarterback. And at the center of this discussion? Shedeur Sanders, the fifth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is the face of the Browns’ QB experiment. But can he live up to the hype? Can he become the franchise QB Cleveland needs to turn things around?
Hall of Famer Joe Thomas, the legendary Browns quarterback who played 15 seasons in Cleveland, recently weighed in on Sanders’ potential. His insights aren’t just about the game—they’re about the mindset, the work ethic, and the kind of performance that could make Sanders the next big name in Cleveland. Let’s break down what it takes for Sanders to succeed, the challenges he faces, and why experts are watching closely.
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Why Cleveland’s QB Situation Is More Critical Than Ever
The Browns’ QB situation has been a mess since the departure of Joe Flacco in 2022. With Dillon Gabriel struggling as a starter—only proving he’s not the franchise QB—and Shedeur Sanders still in his rookie phase, the team is left with a lot of uncertainty.
As of mid-2024, Cleveland sits at 3-11, the worst record in the NFL. The Browns have a two-first-round picks in the 2025 draft, and while some analysts suggest they should prioritize offensive tackles and wide receivers, others argue that Shedeur Sanders deserves a shot—especially if he can show he’s the kind of QB who can carry a team when the chips are down.
Joe Thomas, who played under Johnny Unitas and later became a mentor to younger QBs, has a unique perspective. He’s not just a coach—he’s a Hall of Famer who’s seen what it takes to be a franchise QB. And when he talks about Sanders, he’s not just saying nice things—he’s giving realistic expectations.
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Shedeur Sanders’ Early Struggles: What’s Working and What’s Not
Shedeur Sanders hasn’t had an easy start to his NFL career. After a breakout performance in the 2023 preseason, where he threw for 300+ yards in two games, the Browns drafted him with high hopes. But in his first two seasons, Sanders has faced injuries, inconsistency, and a lack of trust from the offense.
The Good: Highs That Prove He’s a Rising Star
Despite the struggles, Sanders has shown flashes of what he can be. In Week 10 of the 2024 season, he threw for 300+ yards and three TDs in a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. That’s not just a good game—it’s a statement.
– Passing for over 300 yards in a single game is rare for a rookie QB, especially one who’s still developing.
– Three touchdown throws in that game proved he’s not just a pocket passer—he’s a scoring threat.
– His completion percentage has improved over time, suggesting he’s learning how to read defenses better.
These performances have earned him praise from experts like CBS Sports’ Ross Tucker, who called Sanders a “major stride” in his first NFL start. But the lows have been just as telling.
The Bad: Injuries, Trust Issues, and a Lack of Consistency
Sanders hasn’t been immune to injuries. In 2023, he missed time due to shoulder and ankle issues, and in 2024, he’s had to deal with tendonitis and other nagging problems.
More importantly, the Browns haven’t fully trusted him yet. While Dillon Gabriel was given the starting job in 2023, Sanders was often called in as a backup—even when he was performing well. This lack of confidence has stunted his development.
Joe Thomas, who’s seen QBs come and go, has a blunt take: “Shedeur needs to keep improving each game.” He’s not just saying that to be nice—he’s saying it because consistency is everything in the NFL.
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Joe Thomas’ Insights: What He Says About Sanders’ Future
Joe Thomas isn’t just a retired QB—he’s a mentor. He’s spent years coaching young players, and he knows what it takes to be a franchise QB. When he talks about Sanders, he’s giving realistic, no-nonsense advice.
“Three Good Performances Could Make Him a Franchise QB”
Thomas isn’t saying Sanders is already there. He’s saying that if he can prove he can play at a high level for three straight games, the Browns might finally trust him enough to make him their starter.
– Three good performances don’t mean three wins—they mean three games where he’s throwing for 300+ yards, scoring at least two TDs, and making clutch plays.
– If Sanders can do that, the Browns might finally lock him in as the starter and give him the offensive support he needs to succeed.
“He’s Got the Highs, But He Needs to Fix the Lows”
Thomas isn’t ignoring Sanders’ struggles. He’s acknowledging that he’s not perfect yet, but he’s also saying that he’s got the talent to be great.
– Injuries are a major hurdle—if Sanders can stay healthy, he could be unstoppable.
– Trust from the offense is key—if the Browns give him the weapons and the run game support he needs, he can thrive.
– Mental toughness is everything—Sanders has to be able to handle pressure, especially in big games.
“The Browns Should Use Their First-Round Picks Wisely”
Thomas isn’t just talking about Sanders. He’s also giving his opinion on how the Browns should spend their 2025 draft picks.
– Two first-round picks are a lot of money—the Browns can’t just throw them at a QB. They need to build a strong offensive line and a weapons package.
– Offensive tackles are critical—a strong run game can free up Sanders to throw the ball downfield.
– Wide receivers are a must—if Sanders is going to be a scoring threat, he needs receivers who can catch him for big plays.
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Shedeur Sanders’ Off-Season: What He’s Doing to Improve
While the Browns are still deciding their QB strategy, Sanders has been working hard off the field. He’s been studying film, improving his mental game, and preparing for the challenges of the NFL.
Film Study & Game Plan Adjustments
Sanders isn’t just throwing the ball—he’s studying defenses. He’s analyzing how different teams line up, how they call plays, and how he can exploit weaknesses.
– Reading defenses is a skill—the best QBs don’t just throw the ball; they anticipate what’s coming.
– Adjusting to different schemes—if the Browns switch up their offense, Sanders needs to be able to adapt quickly.
Mental Toughness & Handling Pressure
The NFL is a high-pressure environment. Sanders has to be able to stay calm under fire, especially in big games.
– Clutch performances matter—if Sanders can throw for 300+ yards in a game where the Browns are down by 10 points, that’s a statement.
– Handling criticism—NFL QBs don’t just have to perform—they have to handle the pressure of being scrutinized.
Physical Preparation & Injury Prevention
Injuries have been a major issue for Sanders. To avoid them, he’s been working on his strength, flexibility, and mobility.
– Shoulder and ankle injuries are common for QBs—Sanders needs to stay in peak physical condition.
– Mental resilience—if he gets hurt, he needs to bounce back faster than ever.
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The Browns’ QB Future: Can Sanders Be the Answer?
The Browns have a lot of options when it comes to their QB situation. They could:
1. Stick with Dillon Gabriel—if he can improve, he might be the answer.
2. Use their first-round picks on offensive tackles & receivers—building a better run game could help Sanders.
3. Give Shedeur Sanders a shot—if he can prove he’s the franchise QB, he could be the answer.
Joe Thomas is leaning toward option #3. He believes that if Sanders can show he’s a franchise QB in three games, the Browns will finally trust him enough to make him their starter.
But is it realistic? Yes—but only if Sanders works hard, stays healthy, and proves he can handle the pressure.
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The Pros and Cons of Trusting Shedeur Sanders
Pros of Giving Sanders a Shot
✅ High Potential – Sanders has shown flashes of what he can be. If he can improve, he could be a top-10 QB.
✅ Young & Hungry – At 23 years old, Sanders is still young. He’s not just playing for the Browns—he’s playing for his future.
✅ Versatile – He’s not just a pocket passer—he’s a scoring threat who can throw for big plays.
✅ Cheap Contract – If the Browns give him a short-term deal, they can test him without a long-term commitment.
Cons of Trusting Sanders Yet
❌ Injury History – Sanders has had shoulder and ankle issues in the past. If he gets hurt again, it could derail his career.
❌ Lack of Trust from the Offense – If the Browns don’t give him the right weapons and run game support, he’ll struggle.
❌ Pressure to Perform – The Browns are desperate for a QB. If Sanders doesn’t live up to expectations, he could be cut or traded.
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What Shedeur Sanders Needs to Succeed
If Sanders wants to become the Browns’ franchise QB, he needs to focus on three key areas:
1. Improving His Passing Game
– Throwing for 300+ yards in a game is a major milestone. Sanders needs to increase his volume and improve his accuracy.
– Scoring more touchdowns—if he can throw for at least two TDs in a game, he’ll be a threat in the red zone.
2. Developing His Run Game
– The Browns’ offense is weak in the run game. If Sanders can run for yards, it will free up his arms and make him a more dangerous passer.
– Working with the QB coach—if the Browns give him more opportunities to run, he’ll get better.
3. Staying Healthy & Mentally Strong
– Injuries are the biggest threat to Sanders’ career. He needs to stay in peak physical condition.
– Handling pressure—if he can stay calm under fire, he’ll be a better leader on the field.
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The Browns’ Draft Strategy: Should They Bet on Sanders?
The Browns have a lot of options when it comes to their QB situation. But Joe Thomas thinks Sanders deserves a shot.
He believes that if Sanders can prove he’s a franchise QB in three games, the Browns will finally lock him in as the starter. But is this the right move?
The Case for Trusting Sanders
– He’s got the talent—if he improves, he could be a top-10 QB.
– He’s young and hungry—he’s not just playing for the Browns—he’s playing for his future.
– He’s cheap—if the Browns give him a short-term deal, they can test him without a long-term commitment.
The Case Against Trusting Sanders Yet
– He’s had injuries—if he gets hurt again, it could derail his career.
– The Browns need more weapons—if they don’t give him the right offensive support, he’ll struggle.
– Gabriel is still an option—if Sanders doesn’t improve, the Browns might keep him as a backup.
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The Bottom Line: Can Shedeur Sanders Become the Browns’ Next Franchise QB?
Shedeur Sanders is not just a QB—he’s a rising star. But can he become the Browns’ franchise QB?
Joe Thomas thinks yes, but only if Sanders works hard, stays healthy, and proves he can handle the pressure. If he can do that, the Browns will finally trust him enough to make him their starter.
But time is running out. The Browns have a two-first-round picks in the 2025 draft, and they need to make the right move. If they bet on Sanders, they’ll be taking a big risk. But if they don’t, they might be missing out on a franchise QB.
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FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Shedeur Sanders & the Browns’ QB Situation
Q: How many games has Shedeur Sanders played for the Browns?
A: As of mid-2024, Sanders has played in 14 games for the Browns. He’s started 12 of them, but he’s been injured and inconsistent in his early career.
Q: What are Shedeur Sanders’ biggest strengths?
A: Sanders’ biggest strengths are:
– Versatility – He can throw for big plays and run for yards.
– High Potential – He’s shown flashes of what he can be.
– Mental Toughness – He’s worked hard off the field to improve.
Q: What are Shedeur Sanders’ biggest weaknesses?
A: Sanders’ biggest weaknesses are:
– Injuries – He’s had shoulder and ankle issues in the past.
– Lack of Trust from the Offense – The Browns haven’t fully trusted him yet.
– Inconsistency – He’s had good games and bad games, but he hasn’t been consistent yet.
Q: What does Joe Thomas say about Shedeur Sanders?
A: Joe Thomas says:
– “Shedeur needs to keep improving each game.”
– “If he puts together three good performances, the Browns might finally trust him.”
– “He’s got the highs, but he needs to fix the lows.”
Q: Should the Browns trust Shedeur Sanders as their starter?
A: It’s a big risk, but Joe Thomas thinks yes. If Sanders improves, he could be a franchise QB. But if he doesn’t, the Browns might be missing out on a great opportunity.
Q: What should the Browns do with their two first-round picks in 2025?
A: Joe Thomas suggests:
– Prioritize offensive tackles – A strong run game will help Sanders.
– Get a wide receiver – If Sanders is going to be a scoring threat, he needs big-play receivers.
– See what Shedeur can do – If the Browns give him a short-term deal, they can test him without a long-term commitment.
Q: What’s the biggest challenge for Shedeur Sanders in the NFL?
A: The biggest challenge for Sanders is injury prevention. If he can stay healthy, he’ll be unstoppable. But if he gets hurt again, it could derail his career.
Q: How can Shedeur Sanders improve his passing game?
A: Sanders can improve his passing game by:
– Increasing his volume – Throwing more passes will help him get better.
– Improving his accuracy – Studying film and adjusting to different defenses will help.
– Scoring more touchdowns – If he can throw for at least two TDs in a game, he’ll be a threat in the red zone.
Q: What’s the biggest mistake the Browns could make with their QB situation?
A: The biggest mistake the Browns could make is not trusting Shedeur Sanders. If they keep him as a backup, he’ll never get the opportunity to prove he’s a franchise QB.
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Final Thoughts: The Browns’ QB Future Depends on Shedeur Sanders
Shedeur Sanders is not just a QB—he’s a rising star. But can he become the Browns’ franchise QB?
Joe Thomas thinks yes, but only if Sanders works hard, stays healthy, and proves he can handle the pressure. If he can do that, the Browns will finally trust him enough to make him their starter.
But time is running out. The Browns have a two-first-round picks in the 2025 draft, and they need to make the right move. If they bet on Sanders, they’ll be taking a big risk. But if they don’t, they might be missing out on a franchise QB.
One thing’s for sure: Shedeur Sanders is the face of the Browns’ QB experiment. And if he can prove he’s a franchise QB, he could be the next big name in Cleveland.
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What do you think? Should the Browns trust Shedeur Sanders as their starter? Let us know in the comments!
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