Shedeur Sanders Hires Agent, Sparking Trade Speculation with Browns
The Cleveland Browns' backup quarterback's move to secure representation fuels rumors of a potential trade request.
Shedeur Sanders, the backup quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, has hired an NFL agent for the first time, a move that sources suggest could indicate preparations for a trade request. Sanders, in his second season since being drafted in 2025, has retained Adie von Gontard of Young Money APAA Sports.
von Gontard already represents Travis Hunter, a cornerback for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Sanders and Hunter were former teammates and friends at the University of Colorado before entering the 2025 NFL draft together.
The timing of Sanders securing representation is drawing attention, particularly after he was not selected in the first round of the draft and signed his rookie deal without an agent. Multiple sources within the NFL community believe this move signals Sanders' intent to pursue a trade from the Browns.
This pattern has precedent in the league. For example, Arizona Cardinals receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. hired an agent shortly before being traded to the Houston Texans. Similarly, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Za'Darius Smith, and Haason Reddick have all hired new agents in the past as they sought to be traded.
Sanders currently serves as the backup to veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson. While Watson was named the starter, Sanders has largely remained on the sideline. Reports indicate that Sanders believes he can contribute more significantly to a team and desires an opportunity to play.
Watson, 31, has led the Browns to a 3-2 record this season. His performance includes seven touchdown passes, matching the totals of Josh Allen and Sam Darnold, and he has thrown fewer interceptions than either player. Watson's passer rating of 94.1 is competitive with quarterbacks like Drake Maye, Aaron Rodgers, Jalen Hurts, and Matthew Stafford.
Despite some offensive struggles, the Browns' 93 total points place them in the bottom ten of the league. Contributing factors include inconsistencies on the offensive line, the ongoing development of Todd Monken's offense, and a middling running game. These circumstances do not immediately suggest Watson is on the verge of being benched in favor of Sanders.
Given the situation, a player seeking an opportunity elsewhere might choose to hire an agent to facilitate a trade request rather than navigating the process independently. The NFL trade deadline is set for November 10 at 4 p.m., making the timing of Sanders' agent hiring particularly noteworthy and adding fuel to existing rumors.
