NFL 2025 draft surprises : The 2025 NFL Draft delivered one of its biggest surprises when Shedeur Sanders, a highly rated quarterback prospect, unexpectedly fell to the fifth round. The Cleveland Browns’ decision to select Dillon Gabriel earlier in the third round, passing over Sanders, has ignited widespread discussion among fans, analysts, and NFL insiders. ESPN analyst Mike Greenberg openly expressed his confusion and disappointment over the Browns’ quarterback strategy, raising important questions about player evaluation and team decision-making.
The Draft Day Shock Why Did Shedeur Sanders Fall?
Throughout the pre-draft process, Shedeur Sanders was widely regarded as one of the top quarterback talents available. Analysts consistently ranked him highly, praising his decision-making, football intelligence, leadership, and on-field processing skills. Yet despite this consensus, he slipped down to the fifth round. Mike Greenberg highlighted this anomaly, stating, “There is not one draft analyst who said this guy can’t play. Nobody had Dillon Gabriel rated ahead of Sanders.”
The reason behind Sanders’ slide in the draft remains unclear, but it sparked a debate on how the Browns evaluated their quarterback prospects. Many believed Sanders possessed the traits needed to succeed as a starting NFL quarterback early in his career. Meanwhile, Gabriels’ selection ahead of Sanders went against the grain of expert analysis, leading to considerable surprise.
Mike Greenberg’s Take on the Browns’ Strategy
Speaking on ESPN Cleveland, Mike Greenberg described his personal reactions and research into the draft rankings. He emphasized that the overwhelming expert view was that Sanders was at least equal, if not superior, in key quarterback skills compared to Gabriel. Greenberg questioned why the Browns would pass on a player seen as a higher-caliber prospect by so many evaluators.
Greenberg characterized Sanders as a player who has “all the things that a rookie quarterback needs” to be ready to start in the NFL. He warned that failing to give Sanders enough reps and opportunities to showcase his talent could be a major mistake for the Browns’ future quarterback plans. The analyst remains confident that Sanders can rise above his draft position and prove his skeptics wrong with his skills and work ethic.
Sanders’ Position on the Browns Depth Chart
Currently listed as the third-string quarterback behind Dillon Gabriel and veteran Joe Flacco, Sanders faces a challenging path to significant playing time in Cleveland. Despite the lower draft status and depth chart position, Sanders maintains a professional outlook and has shown a strong commitment to improving his game during practices.
Reports from training camps and practices indicate Sanders’ poise, accuracy, arm strength, and improvisational abilities impressed the Browns’ coaching staff. Observers note his extra effort through additional film studies and practice sessions, signifying his determination to earn a chance to start on the field.
Family Support and Player Mindset
Shedeur Sanders’ father, Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, publicly supports his son’s stance toward pursuing starting quarterback opportunities rather than accepting backup roles. Shedeur reportedly declined offers from other teams including the Baltimore Ravens, choosing to remain focused on long-term development and meaningful playing time.
The Sanders family’s confidence in Shedeur’s future ability reflects a growing belief among NFL followers that the young quarterback is an undervalued talent who could prove to be a foundational player for the Browns in the coming seasons.
A Story of Potential and Perseverance
Shedeur Sanders’ unexpected fall in the 2025 NFL Draft remains one of the most talked-about stories in football. Mike Greenberg’s critique adds weight to the idea that the Browns’ quarterback evaluation strategy might have overlooked a player with exceptional potential. As the NFL season progresses, all eyes will be on Sanders to see if he can validate the pre-draft hype and showcase that being drafted late does not define his future.
