Shedeur Sanders is once again part of a major conversation inside the Cleveland Browns locker room. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, teammates are weighing in on the quarterback competition between Shedeur Sanders and veteran Deshaun Watson.
Players on the offensive line say the focus is not on picking sides. Instead, the group plans to support whichever quarterback earns the starting role.
Teammates Back Both QBs
Browns offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins addressed the competition and made it clear the locker room respects both quarterbacks.
“I’ve seen both of them play real good football, so just keeping everything competitive. Just being there for both of them when they need it.”
His comments reflect the approach many teams try to maintain during a quarterback battle. The competition is real, but the locker room remains united.
Jenkins also stressed that the team plans to rally behind whoever ends up leading the offense.
“Whoever wins the first spot, know we’re gonna be there for him,” added Jenkins. “Whoever don’t, you know what, 100% we’re gonna be there for him.”
Those remarks show that the Browns are focused on maintaining a supportive environment while the decision plays out.
Offensive Line Role
For the offensive line, the responsibility remains the same regardless of who starts at quarterback.
Browns guard Zion Johnson echoed that idea when discussing Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson.
“I think both of those guys are very impressive guys. Our job as an offensive line is to let them display that and that’s what we’re going to do,” he said.
Johnson’s statement highlights the mindset of the unit protecting the pocket. Their job is to create time and space so the quarterback can operate effectively.
That role becomes even more important during a quarterback competition, where performance often depends on how well the offense functions around the player.
Why Shedeur Sanders Is Part of the Conversation
Shedeur Sanders entered the league as the 144th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He later stepped into the lineup during his rookie season with Cleveland.
Sanders appeared in eight games and started seven. He finished the year with 1,400 passing yards, seven passing touchdowns, and ten interceptions while completing 56.6 percent of his throws.
He also added a rushing touchdown and 169 rushing yards on 21 carries.
One of his standout performances came against the Tennessee Titans, when he threw for 364 yards and three touchdowns while also scoring on the ground.
As the Browns move forward, the quarterback decision will ultimately depend on performance. For now, teammates say the plan is simple. Keep the competition strong and support both Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson.
Also Read: Fact Check: Does Shedeur Sanders Not Watch Enough Film?