The Cleveland Browns are making significant changes this offseason, particularly in their quarterback and running back positions.
With the addition of Shedeur Sanders and a potential shift in the running back lineup, the team is setting the stage for a new era.
The Browns have added Shedeur Sanders, the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, to their roster. Drafted in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders brings a wealth of college experience, including winning the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award in 2024.
Despite his accolades, Browns General Manager Andrew Berry emphasizes that Sanders must earn his place on the team. Berry stated, “We’re super excited to have him, you know, we spent a lot of time with him in the process. He’s a good kid. He’s talented, you know, we were surprised that he was available at 144, and we’re excited to add him to the room.
“But he’s got to compete and earn a role just like Dillon, Kenny, Joe…I don’t really care about the narratives. And so we’re excited to see that competition because we do have a number of players in that room that we have a level of belief in.”
Currently, the Browns’ quarterback room is crowded, featuring veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, along with Deshaun Watson, who is uncertain to return for Week 1. Rookies Sanders and Dillon Gabriel are participating in the team’s rookie minicamp, indicating the team’s openness to integrating new talent into the roster.
Flacco is expected to start, but the competition remains open, and Sanders’ performance during the offseason will be crucial in determining his role.
Nick Chubb’s future with the Browns
Nick Chubb, a four-time Pro Bowl running back and the franchise’s third all-time leading rusher, faces an uncertain future with the Browns. After suffering a season-ending injury in December 2024, Chubb’s return to the team is in question. General Manager Andrew Berry has hinted at a potential departure, stating, “I would be surprised if Nick Chubb is back with the team.”
The Browns have made moves that suggest a shift in their running back strategy. Jerome Ford, who had a solid 2024 season, agreed to a pay cut, reducing his salary from $3.486 million to $1.75 million.
Additionally, the team drafted rookie running back Dylan Sampson and retained Pierre Strong Jr., further deepening the backfield. These decisions indicate that the Browns are preparing for a future without Chubb.
Chubb has expressed a desire to remain with the team, stating, “Of course, I’d like to finish here.” However, with the team’s evolving roster and salary cap considerations, his return is not guaranteed. The Browns are likely to continue evaluating their options as they prepare for the upcoming season.
As the Browns navigate these changes, the competition for starting roles intensifies. Shedeur Sanders’ performance in the rookie minicamp and the preseason will be pivotal in determining his place on the team.
Similarly, the team’s decisions regarding Nick Chubb will shape the future of the running back position. Both developments are indicative of the Browns’ commitment to building a competitive and dynamic roster for the 2025 NFL season.
Read the full article here
