The NFL draft process took an unexpected turn this week when Shedeur Sanders, the former University of Colorado star quarterback, found himself responding to political heavyweight Donald Trump’s public backing of his professional prospects. The former president specifically name-dropped the Cleveland Browns as a potential destination for the draft-eligible athlete during a recent media appearance.

Unexpected Political Playcall
Trump, who has frequently championed athletes he views as embodying "American determination," singled out Sanders during a Fox News interview: "This young man’s got real leadership – the type of grit that wins championships." The comments immediately fueled speculation about Sanders potentially landing with the Lake Erie franchise.

The 2025 draft prospect, coming off back-to-back 3,000-yard collegiate seasons, acknowledged the endorsement diplomatically during combine preparations. "Respect to President Trump for the support," Sanders told ESPN’s Adam Schefter, "but my focus is on showing teams what I can bring to their locker room – not just on paper, but on the field."

Browns’ Calculated Interest
League insiders confirm Cleveland’s scouting department has monitored Sanders as a potential backup option behind starter Deshaun Watson. The Browns’ front office appears intrigued by what one AFC scout described as "next-level poise in pressure situations" – a trait Sanders demonstrated during his Senior Bowl MVP performance last month.

Team owner Jimmy Haslam’s recent comments to local media reinforce this interest: "We’re always looking for competitors who elevate those around them. Leadership at QB can’t be undervalued."

Navigating the Spotlight
While Trump’s endorsement adds intrigue, Sanders has carefully sidestepped political entanglements. His approach mirrors how other athletes like Aaron Rodgers have handled similar situations – thanking supporters while redirecting focus to sport. This balancing act appears intentional, with Sanders’ agent telling NFL Network: "Shedeur’s draft stock will be decided by 40-yard dash times and game tape, not political opinions."

Draft Landscape
Current projections vary widely, with some analysts (The Athletic’s Dane Brugler) slotting Sanders as a 4th-round "project QB," while others (Mel Kiper Jr.) suggest a team might reach in Round 3 for his intangibles. The Browns currently hold picks #78 and #115 in those respective rounds.

Cleveland’s potential strategy appears two-fold:

1. Develop Sanders behind Watson’s $230M contract

2. Add a cost-controlled backup with starting potential

As combine measurements roll in next week, Sanders’ true draft value will come into focus. For now, the young QB remains characteristically grounded: "However it shakes out, I’ll be ready to compete. That’s the only promise I make."