The praise is rolling in, but Shedeur Sanders‘ NFL future is far from secure. Despite earning nods from respected voices, the Cleveland Browns‘ quarterback room is as uncertain as ever and Sanders could end up as the odd man out in a race that’s about more than just performance.
Analysts and insiders alike are openly questioning whether Sanders’ time with the Browns will extend beyond this season. The biggest red flag is that Cleveland appears poised to go quarterback hunting once again in 2026.
“[Arch] Manning has a big name to live up to,” NFL Trade Rumors’ Ethan Woodie said. “It’s impressive that in the few games we’ve seen him in action, he’s lived up to the billing and then some. His command of the offense is advanced for his age… plays with impeccable timing and touch.”
That’s a strong endorsement of Manning, who many believe could headline the 2026 NFL Draft class. If Manning declares early, there’s already speculation that the Browns would be in the market for a marquee rookie quarterback.
A crowded QB room and a short window
Sanders currently sits in a crowded Browns quarterback room. There’s veteran Joe Flacco, back on a one-year deal. There’s Kenny Pickett, brought in as a reclamation project from Pittsburgh. And there’s rookie Devin Gabriel, another developmental arm. Cleveland has made no long-term commitments to any of them beyond 2025.
Sanders, who signed a four-year rookie deal worth $4.6 million, finds himself in a precarious position. While that contract looks solid on paper, it’s inexpensive enough that the Browns could walk away if a flashier prospect emerges in 2026-whether that’s Manning, Georgia’s Carson Beck, or another breakout star.
The Browns‘ track record doesn’t inspire confidence for young developmental quarterbacks, either. Their history is littered with passers who never got the full chance to develop-despite initial investment and potential.
Sanders, though praised for his mindset and polish, faces the added pressure of proving he belongs before the front office eyes its next QB project.
Sanders has the college resume, the mentality, and the physical tools. But he’s playing in a league where patience is in short supply. And unless he makes an undeniable case this season, the Browns may already be mapping out a quarterback future that doesn’t include him.
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