Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has found himself in the spotlight again-this time over the selection of rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
According to insiders, Haslam‘s presence was more than just ceremonial, and his involvement may have stirred friction within the front office. Yet despite early unease, Sanders has started to convert critics into believers with a sensational performance during minicamp.
The Browns carried big expectations after investing heavily in Deshaun Watson, a move Haslam later described as a “big swingandmiss”. Enter the 2025 draft: Cleveland used its third-round pick on quarterback Dillon Gabriel and then surprised many by taking Sanders at No. 144.
The muted reaction from GM Andrew Berry and coach Kevin Stefanski hinted that Sanders wasn’t the first choice of the coaching staff.
Mary Kay Cabot reported Berry called Sanders “mispriced” and praised his talent, describing him as a “heck of a football player.”
Stefanski echoed those sentiments, offering measured praise. Still, visible restraint in the draft room led to speculation, fueled by Pro Football Talk, that Haslam may have leaned on the decision.
Garrett Bush, a local radio insider, summarized the buzz: “They planned on taking him … but guess what? … He can play. He can throw the ball.” Bush highlighted Sanders’ strong rapport in the locker room and pointed to his chemistry with weapons like Jerry Jeudy, David Njoku, and Judkins.
Turning whispers into wins
If concerns of owner interference created tension, Sanders has offered performance-based redemption. He wrapped up minicamp with a 77.4% completion rate, tossed nine touchdowns against a lone interception, and even earned first-team reps behind closed doors.
His attitude has impressed veterans, with teammate Myles Garrett lauding his “work ethic and positive attitude”.
Media pundits have also taken note. Some predict a breakout by Week 8, citing his “star power” as a potential gamechanger in the Cleveland market.
Former Browns quarterback Joe Thomas and Johnny Manziel have thrown support behind him, Manziel observing, “He could come out and win the job…I think the kid worked really hard, and he loves the game”.
Despite a crowded QB room-including Flacco, Pickett, Gabriel, and Watson (rehabbing a torn Achilles)-Sanders is differentiating himself through preparation and poise.
He’s consistently one of the last off the field and the first to study film, says Mary Kay Cabot: “In the QB room… He is soaking up everything like a sponge.” That’s the kind of determination that can sway even the most skeptical decision-makers.
While Stefanski maintains that rotation during practice should not be overanalyzed, Cleveland sources confirm Sanders has been running 11-on-11 first-team reps behind closed doors, suggesting that his stock is rising internally.
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