The Cleveland Browns may have a Pro Bowl quarterback on their roster in Shedeur Sanders, but that hasn’t stopped fresh NFL rumors from connecting the franchise to another potential signal-caller ahead of the NFL Combine.
According to The Athletic’s Zac Jackson, the Browns “are again involved in a perpetual quarterback search,” noting that the team plans to meet with quarterback prospects in Indianapolis and explore possible trade scenarios with other franchises. That report aligns with earlier comments from ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, who predicted a potential “shake-up” at the position during an appearance on ESPN Cleveland.
Despite Sanders’ Pro Bowl selection as a rookie, Cleveland appears unwilling to fully commit without competition.
Coach Sanders avoids awkward encounter with ex-wife
Shedeur Sanders’ performance raises questions
On paper, Sanders’ rookie rsum includes a Pro Bowl appearance. However, a closer look at the numbers tells a more complicated story. In seven starts, the 24-year-old threw for:
- 1,353 yards,
- seven touchdowns
- nine interceptions
- completed 59.2 percent of his passes
- posted a 72.9 quarterback rating
While no rookie enters the NFL as a finished product, the production left room for improvement. Sanders was sacked three times per game, reinforcing pre-draft concerns about holding onto the ball too long in the pocket. Those tendencies carried over from college and at times stalled Cleveland’s offense.
Still, some argue Sanders deserves a full season as the unquestioned starter before the organization considers pivoting. But Cleveland’s actions suggest they are not prepared to hand him the job without competition.
New head coach Todd Monken struck a cautious tone when asked whether he already has a starting quarterback in mind.
I think like any position on the team, that’s still to be determined, Am I excited about Shedeur? Am I excited about all the quarterbacks in the room? Am I excited to coach this football team? Absolutely. I can’t wait for them to get back and for us to get started.
Those comments reflect enthusiasm – but not certainty.
Browns exploring all options before NFL Combine
Cleveland’s quarterback room is not empty. Deshaun Watson remains under contract and is expected to be fully healthy for Week 1 following Achilles surgery. Sanders and Dillon Gabriel are also in the mix. However, the organization’s reported willingness to evaluate draft prospects and explore trade discussions signals that nothing is guaranteed.
The NFL Combine often serves as a turning point for teams searching for clarity at quarterback. If the Browns identify a prospect they believe offers a higher ceiling – or a more immediate upgrade – they could make a move.
For now, Sanders appears to have the inside track on QB1. But the Browns‘ continued due diligence suggests they are leaving no stone unturned. In Cleveland, the quarterback question remains open – and the search may not be over just yet.