Shedeur Sanders Impresses at Browns Rookie Camp, But Quarterback Competition Remains Open
Cleveland, OH — The Cleveland Browns’ rookie minicamp has wrapped up, and early buzz surrounds former Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who reportedly turned heads with his poise, accuracy, and command of the offense. According to team insiders, Sanders is “miles ahead” of fellow rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel in terms of physical tools and immediate impact. However, Browns coaches are urging caution before drawing long-term conclusions.
Sanders, the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, entered the NFL with significant media attention and expectations. At rookie camp, he showcased the arm strength, mobility, and leadership that made him a standout in college. His ability to read defenses and deliver throws on time reportedly impressed the Browns’ offensive staff, particularly during red zone drills and play-action reps.
While Sanders has made a strong first impression, sources within the organization emphasize that Dillon Gabriel is far from out of the picture. The former Oklahoma and UCF quarterback brings a wealth of college experience and has been praised for his football IQ and consistency in execution. Gabriel may not have the same athletic ceiling as Sanders, but his ability to run a structured offense and protect the football gives him a reliable floor.
“The quarterback room is competitive, and that’s what we want,” said one team source. “Shedeur came out hot and showed a lot of confidence, but Dillon’s steady presence and preparation are valuable. There’s still a lot of football to be played.”
The Browns’ coaching staff is expected to rotate reps evenly throughout OTAs and training camp. Veteran quarterbacks already on the roster will also factor into the competition, making the path to a starting or backup role even more challenging for the rookies.
Ultimately, the next few months will be pivotal. Performance in preseason games, command of the playbook, and ability to build chemistry with receivers will be key determinants. Sanders may currently have the early edge in terms of raw talent and upside, but Gabriel’s maturity and decision-making keep the door wide open.
For now, the Browns are taking a patient approach, welcoming the competition and development of two distinctly different but promising rookie quarterbacks. As the summer unfolds, the question isn’t just who looks good in shorts — it’s who can lead when the real games begin.
