Weeks before the NFL Draft, Cam Ward was favored to be the Tennessee Titans’ first overall pick. He was indeed the first pick, becoming the 40th quarterback selected in that position in draft history. After his selection, however, the focus shifted to who would be the second quarterback taken-Shedeur Sanders or Jaxson Dart-as teams like the New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and Pittsburgh Steelers were in need of one for the next season. We now know that the Giants traded a first-round selection (25th overall) to Houston in exchange for second- and third-round selections and a third-round selection in 2026 to get Dart. Meanwhile, Shedeur fell to pick 144 with the Browns.
Jaxson Dart’s Journey with the Giants
Jaxson Dart is currently training with the Giants, though he has yet to sign a contract. He shares how he earned Brian Daboll’s trust during previous training sessions and interviews. In the process, he subtly criticizes Shedeur Sanders, who was projected to be the Giants’ choice for months. Dart says, “You better be prepared going into a Daboll meeting because it’s intense. If you’re not prepared, don’t step into the meeting. You’re going to get grilled,” those comments can be seen as a dig at Sanders.
Sanders slid to the fifth round due to concerns about his discipline and work ethic. Perhaps some teams didn’t want the backup to overshadow the starter. Dart doesn’t name names, but we all know this is what happened. Dart will now learn from Russell Wilson and could potentially step up this season if needed. Meanwhile, Sanders will compete with Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel for the Browns’ starting quarterback position.
Shedeur Sanders’ Uncertain Future with the Browns
The good news for Sanders is that he already has a signed contract with the Cleveland Browns, unlike Dart. With plenty of time before the start of the season, their rookie seasons will be completely different. Dart is a future project for the Giants and has the opportunity to learn from Super Bowl winner Russell Wilson, who could be a great mentor, much like Jameis Winston. Therefore, he should be more relaxed about his situation than Shedeur.
Shedeur, on the other hand, although he already has his four-year, $4,647,380 contract, does not have a secure spot on the Browns’ 53-man roster because they will likely keep three quarterbacks, not four. I’m not including Deshaun Watson in the equation because his injury will keep him out of the next season. Joe Flacco, the 17-year veteran, might be the only one with a secure spot, while the other two spots will be between Kenny Pickett, a champion with the Eagles, and the rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur. It will be interesting to see what happens with the Browns ahead of the season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals.
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