Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam revealed that the team made a last-minute decision to draft Shedeur Sanders, a quarterback who has been embroiled in controversy due to speeding violations, after a conversation among team executives on the final day of the NFL Draft. Haslam stated that the team had no intention of drafting Sanders after the quarterback fell out of the third round on April 25, but the decision changed after a final-day discussion among the leadership.
Haslam emphasized that his initial reaction to the idea of drafting Sanders was skepticism, stating, ‘If you had told me Friday night… ‘Y’all are gonna pick Shedeur,’ I would have said, ‘That’s not happening.’’ However, a conversation early the next morning and later that day among the team’s leadership led to the decision. Haslam also acknowledged that the ultimate call to draft Sanders rested with general manager Andrew Berry, who emphasized the team’s commitment to selecting the ‘best player available’ and the importance of adding competition to the quarterback room.
Sanders, who was projected to be a top pick in the 32nd overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, ended up being selected at the 144th pick after a significant drop in the draft order. The decision was controversial, as some analysts had expected Sanders to be picked much higher. However, the Browns’ general manager stated that the team’s strategy was to select based on the ‘best player available’ and positional value, rather than a predetermined plan.
Sanders’ presence on the Browns has already been tainted by controversy after he was cited for speeding twice. The first incident saw him ticketed for going 91 mph in a 65-mph zone, and a second ticket came when he was clocked at 101 mph in a 60-mph zone, failing to appear in court. Sanders addressed the issue during a charity event, admitting to making ‘wrong choices’ and expressing a commitment to learning from his mistakes. Team officials, including general manager Andrew Berry, have criticized the incidents, highlighting the potential dangers of such behavior and the need for responsibility.
Berry emphasized that the team had addressed the issue with Sanders, stating, ‘He understands the implications. He understands the consequences. It’s not just about yourself. It’s not just about having a joyride, but that you could injure other people… A deer or something cuts in front of you, your reaction time, it’s just dangerous.’ The decision to draft Sanders has thus been met with mixed reactions, as the team balances the need for talent with concerns about the quarterback’s conduct and character.
The Browns’ decision to draft Sanders highlights the complexities of talent acquisition in the NFL, where a combination of strategy, timing, and unforeseen circumstances can lead to unexpected outcomes. As the team moves forward, the focus will be on how Sanders can contribute to the franchise’s success while addressing the concerns raised by his recent actions.