You Won't Believe Who Analysts Say Sanders Mirrors – This Former Browns QB Will Shock You!

The Cleveland Browns are making a bold move by continuing to trust rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who has recently drawn comparisons to former Browns star Baker Mayfield. Sanders, who was drafted in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft after generating significant hype, began the season as the third-string quarterback but is now set for his second consecutive start after a promising debut.

In his first start, Sanders helped the Browns secure a victory, and the excitement surrounding his performance has led NFL analyst Nick Wilson of 92.3 The Fan to draw parallels between Sanders and Mayfield. According to Wilson, “Kind of like Baker (Mayfield). When Baker came in, that was the right guy at the right time with the right attitude that fit this town.” He emphasized that while Sanders isn’t a direct replica of Mayfield, both players embody a “spark” crucial for the team’s success under owner Jimmy Haslam.

Wilson expressed optimism about Sanders’ potential, stating, “This is the kind of guy, that I think does have a chance. All the crap that comes with being a Browns quarterback, he doesn’t care about.” Such confidence is paramount in a city that has endured a turbulent history with quarterbacks. So far, Sanders has completed 15 of 36 passes for 256 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions this season.

Confidence and Team Belief

Like Mayfield, Sanders exudes a strong sense of confidence which he attributes to the belief his teammates have in him. Ahead of his second NFL start against the San Francisco 49ers, Sanders stated, “Well, it’s about belief. The reason why I am so confident in the way I am is the guys around believe. So that’s what’s most important within having a team, within having an offense.” He believes that gaining more first-team reps will only bolster his development and confidence moving forward.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski praised Sanders for his performance in his first start, particularly noting his effectiveness in avoiding sacks, an area of concern prior to his debut. Stefanski remarked, “I thought he did a great job; the protection plan was really solid. We really had one sack for negative three yards on a coverage sack.” He highlighted Sanders' ball security and ability to maintain possession, crucial for a young quarterback navigating the pressures of the NFL.

Stefanski continued, “You have great success over the course of a game by everybody being on the same page. That’s the quarterback in how he’s operating. That’s the offensive line and who they’re blocking, tight ends and running backs are involved.” This synergy is vital as Sanders prepares to lead the Browns into a tough match-up against the 49ers.

As the Browns embrace this new chapter with Sanders at the helm, the team's fortunes may hinge on his ability to channel his confidence and the support of his teammates. With the Browns’ fanbase longing for a return to football glory, all eyes will be on Sanders as he aims to carve out his legacy in the storied history of Cleveland’s quarterback lineage.