Trade rumors are circulating in the NFL regarding Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders, with some suggesting a potential move before the team's training camp begins on July 28. Sanders, who was a significant talking point in the 2025 NFL Draft, eventually landed with the Browns in the fifth round as the 144th overall pick.
During his rookie season, Sanders started seven games, accumulating 1,400 passing yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He played for a struggling team that finished its season with a 4-13 record. The Browns' quarterback room currently includes Sanders, fellow 2025 draft selection Dillon Gabriel, Deshaun Watson, and 2026 draftee Taylen Green.
Reports indicate that the Browns may reduce their quarterback roster to three, and Sanders is a candidate to be traded. Tony Rizzo, a radio host for ESPN Cleveland, stated that discussions about Sanders' availability are ongoing. "The Browns, for whatever reason, don't think he is the guy," Rizzo said. "I am going to say right now for the record that I don't think the four quarterbacks are going to camp on July 28."
Cleveland.com reported that while the Browns are open to continuing the competition between Sanders and Watson in training camp, a trade remains a possibility. The report suggested that the Browns would consider offers for Sanders, particularly if Watson secures the starting position. Offers for Dillon Gabriel could also be considered depending on how the quarterback competition unfolds.
Deshaun Watson is under contract with the Browns on a fully guaranteed $230 million deal signed in 2022. He missed the entire 2025 season due to a torn Achilles tendon.
New Browns head coach Todd Monken has not yet named a starting quarterback. However, in March, Monken indicated that Watson was currently leading the competition. "Anytime that you have a player that at one time has exhibited the skill set at an elite level, I think you're always going to give them the benefit of the doubt that somehow we might be able to get that out of him again," Monken said.
The Browns are scheduled to open their 2026 season against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 13.
