Shedeur Sanders knows exactly what it could cost him to miss a practice or a game. His role as the Browns’ starting quarterback didn’t land in his lap; it came after Dillon Gabriel’s significant drop in form opened the door. Sanders stepped in, earned the job, and understands he can’t risk anything-not even the smallest detail of his daily routine.
That’s why a recent viral clip caught so much attention. In it, Sanders sits down for his game-day meal and openly admits he never uses the silverware placed on the table. He shared that he avoids utensils from restaurants altogether because he doesn’t trust how thoroughly they’re sanitized. .
A routine that sparks debate
The moment spread quickly online, with many calling him extreme or even arrogant. Others defended him, pointing out that he’s far from the only athlete who guards what he puts into his body. But maybe, Sanders simply doesn’t like touching restaurant silverware, because the items sitting out aren’t cleaned the way he needs them to be. It’s a habit that may seem unusual, but it’s undeniably honest.
The reaction was split. Some fans argued that constantly using disposable utensils is excessive. But many insiders pushed back, reminding people that athletes often take strict measures because even a minor stomach issue could sideline them from a game-or compromise their performance in ways fans rarely see.
More common than people think
Across sports, these precautions aren’t rare. F1 driver Sergio Pérez has admitted he avoids seafood before a race, fearing food poisoning that could take him out of competition. To outsiders, these choices can look picky or overly cautious. But for athletes whose careers depend on staying healthy and consistent, these decisions go beyond avoiding germs-they’re about protecting everything they’ve worked for.
For Sanders, that vigilance carries extra weight. He’s fighting to solidify his place in Cleveland, holding one home loss and one win so far. Every detail matters, and he knows any slip-no matter how small-could shift the team’s confidence in him. So even if some call him dramatic, he stays committed to what keeps him focused.
The viral clip resonated because it revealed a habit that’s strange to some but completely genuine. It showed that Sanders’ focus stretches far beyond the field and deep into the routines that help him feel secure. Something as simple as refusing a fork turned into a reminder that for elite competitors, success starts with discipline in the smallest decisions.
And for Shedeur, if that decision helps him stay locked in and ready to protect the job he fought for, then it’s one detail he’s not willing to compromise.
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