The NFL trade deadline is just around the corner, and Cleveland Browns fans are buzzing with speculation about quarterback Shedeur Sanders. After a rocky rookie season and a recent agent hire, some believe a move is imminent. But according to The Athletic's Jonathan Jones, the Browns have a clear preference: they're keeping Sanders.
Sanders, selected in the fifth round (144th overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft, appeared in eight games last season, completing 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. Despite a training camp battle, Deshaun Watson secured the starting job under offensive coordinator Todd Monken, leaving Sanders as the backup.
This week, Sanders hired Adie von Gontard of Young Money APAA Sports as his agent—a move that turned heads because Sanders had entered the NFL without representation. Some fans immediately speculated that the new agent might push for a trade, but Jones suggests that's not happening.
According to Jones, Browns general manager Andrew Berry has a "great affection" for Sanders, whom he took a chance on when the rest of the league passed him over multiple times. Despite being one of the worst starting quarterbacks by several metrics last season, Sanders showed growth in the preseason and training camp. "There is belief in Sanders and his ability," Jones wrote. "He's also on a fifth-round rookie contract for another two-plus years."
Berry's current starter, Deshaun Watson, is not under contract beyond this season and has a history of injuries. That makes Sanders a valuable insurance policy at a bargain price. Jones added, "Blanket caveat that anything can happen over the next few weeks, but the Browns dealing Sanders by the deadline would be a stunner."
Meanwhile, Philadelphia Eagles fans are dreaming of a reunion. With Jalen Hurts sidelined this weekend due to a superficial blood clot, some on social media have floated the idea of the Eagles trading for Sanders. "Eagles go get Shedeur Sanders," one fan wrote on X, while another claimed their "narrative" of Sanders to Philly is "looking good."
While such speculation is fun, the reality is that Cleveland's front office appears content to develop Sanders. The team's recent moves suggest they're building for the future, and Sanders could be part of that plan. If anything, the Browns might be more inclined to explore other trade scenarios to address immediate needs.
For now, Sanders remains a Brown. The trade deadline is Nov. 10, but all signs point to him staying in Cleveland. As Jones noted, a deal would be a "stunner"—and that's exactly why it's unlikely to happen.
