When the Cleveland Browns opened their 2025 camp, rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders made headlines for reasons that went beyond his exploits on the football field. Browns general manager, Andrew Berry, took some time to address Sanders and his speeding tickets, which Sanders allegedly had some questionable judgment involving in the offseason.
“He understands the implications; he understands the consequences. I think the thing is it’s not just about yourself… but it’s about the fact that you can endanger other people. If a deer or someone cuts out in front of you, like, your reaction time—it’s just dangerous, and it’s not something that we want our guys to be doing.” said Berry
It was clear that the organization, and Sanders himself, took Sanders’ offseason speeding tickets very seriously, according to Andrew Berry.
“Not smart, just not smart, and it’s something that we’ve addressed with him.”
Sanders was in the news after two speeding violations: one ticket was issued June 5 in Medina at 91 mph in a 65 mph speed zone, and another on June 17 when Sanders accelerated to 101 mph on Interstate 71 in Strongsville in a 60 mph speed zone.
The quarterback, a rookie and the club’s fifth-round choice out of the University of Colorado addressed the drama a matter of days later, speaking at David Njoku’s celebrity softball game. He stated:
“I’ve made some wrong choices. I have to own up to them. … I learn from them.”
Off-Field Growth Crucial in Shedeur Sanders’ Quest for Browns’ QB Spot
Sanders isn’t the only one to beat out in this Browns quarterback competition, as he is battling journeymen Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett and third-round draft pick Dillon Gabriel. Actions both on and off the field can have an impact on a young player in terms of reputation and projection.
The organization responded with direct accountability but also offered support. Both Berry and head coach Kevin Stefanski made it clear that such behavior won’t be tolerated, and both also acknowledged that Sanders’ taking responsibility is a step in the right direction. Stefanski indicated that development off the field, though equally as important, is how he does it on the field, and the organization wants Sanders to be a role model for others.
For Sanders, this lesson goes well beyond the speeding tickets. As Berry pointed out, reckless driving isn’t just about the player—it’s about the safety of everyone. The unique visibility of the NFL causes the decisions of players like Sanders to be heightened, setting foundational values for teammates and fans. The noteworthy aspect is that Sanders visibly and promptly admitted his faults gives confidence to both coaches and fans in his maturity.
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