The Cleveland Browns have made a significant quarterback change following a difficult start to the 2025 season. After a strong showing in 2023, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has struggled to replicate that form, throwing six interceptions and only two touchdowns in four appearances.
As a result, the team has moved forward with rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who was selected in the third round of this year’s draft.
The reshuffling notably leaves Shedeur Sanders sidelined, a situation that drew attention not just for the decision itself, but for Sanders’ unusual response.
When approached by reporters in the locker room, Sanders chose not to speak. Instead, he silently mouthed responses, mimicking answers without making a sound.
The behaviour appeared to be a reaction to recent media criticism, particularly from Rex Ryan, who previously accused him of being too outspoken.
The move was interpreted by some as a commentary on the media’s scrutiny of his public persona. However, it raised concerns about how it might be perceived by NFL executives and decision-makers.
Criticism directed at Deion Sanders for encouraging behaviour
The response drew further attention when Deion Sanders, head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes and Shedeur‘s father, publicly praised his son’s actions on social media. Commenting on a clip of the locker room exchange, he wrote: “Good 1 son. You did that,” accompanied by several laughing emojis.
Former NFL linebacker and analyst Emmanuel Acho criticised the elder Sanders’ response, stating that such public support could negatively affect Shedeur Sanders‘ reputation among NFL teams.
“The reason I hate this is because I do not want to positively reinforce something that is negatively impacting Shedeur… In this video, what Shedeur did today, it’s going to negatively impact him. No decision-maker in the NFL is going to look at that Shedeur’s actions from today in the locker room and say, ‘I think more highly of you now than I did then,'” Acho said on Speakeasy.
Elsewhere, Dillon Gabriel addressed the challenges of stepping into the starting role, stating: “You wait for the perfect time, you’re going to be waiting your whole life.” The comment has been interpreted as a possible response to reports that Sanders previously discouraged certain teams from drafting him.
As the Browns navigate yet another quarterback transition, the focus remains on how these off-field developments could influence future roster decisions.
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