On a recent episode of ESPN’s “First Take,” Stephen A. Smith discussed his thoughts on the Cleveland Browns quarterback position, with a special emphasis on rookie Shedeur Sanders.
Smith voiced doubts about Sanders starting in Week 1, speculating that the Browns would wait to give the young quarterback the starting position to assess his mental and emotional fortitude.
Stephen A. Smith Predicts Browns Will Hold Off on Starting Shedeur Sanders Week 1
In his latest “First Take” broadcast, Smith explained why he doesn’t think Sanders will start for the Browns in Week 1. Smith’s logic? Sanders will be put to the test by the Browns both on and off the field.
“I don’t think he’s a guy that’s going to be judged by just his play,” Smith stated, suggesting that the Browns would be more concerned with assessing Sanders’ maturity, humility, and capacity for perseverance.
.@stephenasmith says Shedeur Sanders won’t start Week 1 for the Browns because they’re going to “test him.” 👀
“I don’t think [Shedeur’s] a guy that’s going to be judged by just his play.” 😳 pic.twitter.com/ItAGKQM0hJ
— First Take (@FirstTake) April 29, 2025
Smith also implied that the team wants to observe how Sanders handles pressure, how he works with teammates, and whether he can lead without taking advantage of others.
There was much speculation around Sanders’ draft decline at the time of this idea. Sanders dropped all the way to pick No. 144 after formerly being predicted to go as high as the second round.
According to reports, concerns were raised regarding his pre-draft interviews and the impression of a strong personality that was influenced by his father, Deion Sanders.
Put it gently, the Browns responded coldly to Sanders’ draft selection. People praised the selection on social media, but the viral war room footage gave a different impression. There was only a silent acknowledgement and little excitement.
This incident stoked speculation that Jimmy Haslam, the team’s owner, who had allegedly developed a rapport with Shedeur and Coach Prime prior to the selection, made the decision.
Despite the commotion, Sanders walks into a competitive quarterback room with Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel. Based on betting odds and media rumours, Sanders is already ahead of Gabriel, but Smith is still certain that the Browns won’t give him the offensive keys right away.
Can Sanders Prove Them Wrong?
Smith’s opinion is more about the Browns’ internal culture than about questioning Sanders’ ability. He thinks they want to purposefully mould Sanders’ development by letting him mature a little, observing his reactions, and discovering what type of teammate he becomes when he isn’t immediately given the limelight.
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However, the first reports from the camp indicate that Sanders is accepting the challenge. He has arrived ready to work, focused, and prepared. Sanders is playing the long game, regardless of whether he starts Week 1.
If he can disprove those with doubts, he might become the Browns’ long-term quarterback.
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