Former Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who was once projected as a potential first-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft, faced an unexpected setback, falling to round five, where the Cleveland Browns picked him as the 144th overall selection on the last day of the draft.
The unexpected drop has since created an intense debate in the football world, with a rain of criticism falling on the young QB.
David Njoku Backs Shedeur Sanders With Powerful Words About His Strength
Many attributed his fall to the influence of his father, Deion Sanders, the Colorado head coach and NFL legend. In the midst of this criticism, Browns tight end star David Njoku weighed in with a powerful message of support, offering Sanders a much-needed encouragement as he proceeds to the next phase of his career in NFL.
After the fall, Njoku took to his Instagram handle and shared a heartfelt message for his new teammate. Posting a photo of Sanders in his Colorado Buffaloes uniform: He wrote, “Let ’em all hate fam u kno what u got fam u!!”. This emotional message from Njoku was nothing but a clear indication of support from a veteran leader, aimed at lifting the lad’s spirits after a challenging draft experience.
David Njoku with a strong message for @ShedeurSanders 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/DlxyBQ4fsF
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) April 27, 2025
In the 2017 NFL Draft, Njoku was a first-round pick by the Browns and he has since cemented his place in the team’s offense and is a respected voice in the locker room.
After facing personal challenges during his career, including injuries and the Browns’ organizational instability, his message highlights the importance of team unity.
Cleveland’s Quarterback Room
The teams’ bold move to draft two quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft is another call for debate among fans, with some describing it as a random inclusive method that could lead to a crucial disposition in the QB role.
Dillon Gabriel, drafted before Sanders by the Browns, is a highly skilled player known for his talent, agility, and experience. Having made his ground at Oregon’s high-tempo offense.
Conversely, Sanders has more traditional pocket-passing style experience, with the potential to develop into a franchise QB if he receives the right support.
Veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett are also other players at the QB position whose presence, as well, adds depth to the position. Leaving the coach to decide how to balance development with immediate impact at the position.
Also, Deshaun Watson’s circumstances pose another concern for the team and in the quarterback room. His contract carries a potential $53 million dead cap hit if the Browns move on after 2026, limiting the team’s flexibility. His recent injury raises significant concerns about his ability to start.
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The hope now is that either Sanders or Gabriel can brings the transformative impact right from day one, and eventually emerge as a long-term solution.
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