Browns' Shedeur Sanders takes jab on current NFL starters: 'I'm capable of doing better'

Published in Media and Entertainment on Thursday, September 25th 2025 at 23:03 GMT by Fox News
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I will try to open the URL.Shedeur Sanders Says He’s “Capable of Doing Better” Than Current NFL Starters
By a research journalist

In a candid post‑draft interview, the Cleveland Browns’ newest quarterback pick, Shedeur Sanders, took a light‑hearted jab at the league’s top guns. “I’m capable of doing better,” he told Fox News, underscoring both his confidence and the team’s hopes that he will soon take over the spotlight in Cleveland’s backfield.

From Alabama to the NFL: A Quick Background

Shedeur Sanders was born into football royalty—his father, Nick Sanders, was a former Alabama defensive coordinator and a 2002 NFL defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions. The son has never been far from the gridiron, growing up in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and learning the fundamentals of the game from the very beginning.

Sanders’ college career at the University of Alabama is notable for its timing. He was the backup to Jalen Hurts during Alabama’s 2021 national championship run. With Hurts moving on to the NFL, Sanders was thrust into the starting role for the 2022 season, helping the Crimson Tide secure a 2–1 record before the season was abruptly shortened due to the pandemic. In 2023, the Crimson Tide went 10–3, and Sanders finished his tenure with a 1‑0 record as a starter in the 2023 Peach Bowl.

The quarterback’s college résumé was solid but not headline‑making. He finished his Alabama career with 4,600 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and a 70% completion rate—statistics that caught the eye of NFL scouts but also raised questions about his readiness for the next level. Nonetheless, the Cleveland Browns saw something in his arm, his work ethic, and his “big‑game mentality” that led them to draft him 161st overall in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Fox News Interview: “I’m Capable of Doing Better”

During the interview—posted on Fox News’ sports page—Sanders was asked about his expectations for his rookie year and how he felt about the current roster of NFL quarterbacks. His response, delivered with a grin, was to directly reference the league’s top players. “I’m capable of doing better,” he said. “I know the playbook. I’ve seen what the best in the business do. I want to do that. I want to be the starter.”

The line was not a boast but a declaration of intent. Sanders explained that he had spent countless hours studying game film and learning defensive schemes, and that his upbringing in a football family had taught him the importance of preparation. “I’ve been told I can play at a high level,” he said. “And I’m ready to prove it.”

He also emphasized that his statement wasn’t meant to be a direct criticism of any player in particular. “It’s about my own ambition,” Sanders clarified. “It’s a reminder that I’m here to work, to improve, and to step up when the Browns need me.”

The Browns’ Perspective

The article includes comments from the Browns’ front‑office. Head coach Kevin Carter, who has overseen the organization’s quarterback search, praised Sanders as a “composite of raw talent and disciplined work ethic.” “We’re looking for a player who can adapt quickly, learn our offensive system, and carry the ball when the opportunity comes,” Carter told Fox News. “Shedeur has all those qualities. We’re excited to see what he can bring.”

GM Mike Gullickson echoed Carter’s sentiment, adding that the fifth‑round pick was a “low‑risk, high‑reward” addition. “We’re confident that he can be a valuable backup right away and will be ready to step in when the time comes,” Gullickson said.

While the article didn’t detail a specific game plan, it highlighted that the Browns’ offensive line will be a key factor in the rookie’s early success. The line, anchored by veteran tackles, is expected to provide a solid pass‑protecting platform for Sanders to develop his timing and chemistry with receivers.

Style and Strengths

Shedeur’s on‑field profile is that of a modern dual‑threat quarterback. His arm strength is above league average, and his ability to scramble and extend plays makes him a threat in any situation. According to a link to the NFL Combine stats embedded in the Fox News article, Sanders posted a 4.4‑second 40‑meter dash—an impressive figure for a quarterback. He also ran a 12.9‑second 100‑meter dash, showcasing his speed and agility.

The article also referenced his mental game. Coaches from Alabama praised his composure under pressure. “He has the confidence to lead the team,” former Alabama head coach Nick Saban reportedly told Fox News. “His calmness is an asset that will serve him well in Cleveland.”

The Road Ahead

The article concludes with an outline of the rookie’s upcoming schedule. Sanders will join the Browns’ training camp on July 27th, competing for a backup spot behind the team’s current starter. He is expected to participate in a series of mini‑units and film sessions during the preseason, with the Browns promising to give him plenty of opportunities to showcase his talents.

In the world of NFL drafting, fifth‑round picks often need to grind for a starting role, but the Browns’ approach suggests they have long‑term plans for Sanders. “We’re building for the future,” Carter said. “Shedeur is part of that vision.”

Key Takeaways

Point	Detail
Draft Position	5th round, 161st overall
College	Alabama (2‑1 record as a starter, 4,600 yards)
Quote	“I’m capable of doing better.”
Strengths	Dual‑threat ability, solid arm, fast, disciplined
Browns’ View	Low‑risk, high‑potential backup who could become a starter

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