Alex Smith EXPOSES The Real Reason Shedeur Sanders Isn’t Starting for the Browns!

In a surprising revelation that has rocked the NFL community, former NFL quarterback Alex Smith has exposed the real reason why Shedeur Sanders, the talented quarterback from the University of Colorado, isn’t starting for the Cleveland Browns. While the Browns’ quarterback situation has been under heavy scrutiny for months, Smith’s candid comments have added a new layer of intrigue to the conversation. According to Smith, it’s not a matter of Sanders’ talent or potential but rather deeper, more complex issues behind the scenes that are keeping him from stepping into a starting role.

The Shedeur Sanders Phenomenon

Shedeur Sanders has been one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in college football this season. The son of Hall of Fame cornerback Deion Sanders, Shedeur has inherited his father’s athleticism and charisma, quickly rising to prominence with the University of Colorado. His arm strength, accuracy, and poise under pressure have made him a top prospect for the NFL, with many analysts predicting that he could make an immediate impact at the professional level.

The Cleveland Browns, a team that has struggled with quarterback stability in recent years, have long been in the market for a franchise quarterback who could elevate their offense. The team has been grappling with inconsistent play from Deshaun Watson, and the thought of acquiring a fresh, dynamic talent like Sanders has intrigued fans and experts alike.

So, why isn’t Sanders starting for the Browns? According to Alex Smith, the situation is far more complicated than it appears.

Alex Smith’s Revelation

During a recent appearance on a popular NFL podcast, Alex Smith, who had a successful career as a starting quarterback in the NFL, shared his thoughts on why Shedeur Sanders hasn’t taken the reigns as the Browns’ starting quarterback. Smith, who has a wealth of experience navigating NFL team dynamics and quarterback development, pointed to a number of behind-the-scenes factors that have played a pivotal role in the Browns’ decision-making process.

1. The Politics of the NFL: Team Dynamics and Power Struggles

Smith highlighted that one of the key reasons Sanders hasn’t been able to step into a starting role is the complex nature of team politics and power struggles within the NFL. As a high-profile rookie, Sanders would inevitably face resistance from established veterans and key figures in the locker room. In the case of the Browns, Deshaun Watson, despite his inconsistent performances, holds a significant position within the team. His contract, experience, and status as the presumed franchise quarterback make it difficult for any rookie to immediately overtake him, regardless of their skill set.

Smith emphasized that it’s not uncommon for young quarterbacks to face internal opposition when entering a team with a veteran starter, even if their talent is evident. In Sanders’ case, the Browns’ front office and coaching staff would have to navigate these politics carefully to avoid alienating their existing players, particularly Watson, whose presence in the locker room could be crucial for team morale and cohesion.

2. The Browns’ Long-Term Strategy: Developing Sanders the Right Way

Another reason for Sanders’ lack of a starting role, according to Smith, lies in the Browns’ long-term strategy. Smith believes that the Browns may be taking a more measured approach to Sanders’ development. Instead of throwing him into the fire immediately, the team may want to give him time to adjust to the NFL’s speed and complexity. The decision to have Sanders sit behind Watson for now could be a calculated move designed to allow Sanders to learn from an experienced professional before assuming the leadership role himself.

For teams that have a rookie quarterback, especially one with the raw talent of Sanders, the pressure to succeed can be immense. Smith suggested that the Browns might be concerned about the potential risks of starting Sanders too early and potentially stunting his growth or confidence. He noted that many great quarterbacks in history, including himself, benefited from sitting and learning for a period before being thrust into the starting role.

3. The Desire to Protect Sanders from the Browns’ Offensive Line Struggles

Smith also pointed to the Browns’ offensive line as a significant factor in why Sanders isn’t starting. The Browns have struggled with their offensive line in recent years, and while they have some talent up front, they are far from being considered an elite unit. For a young quarterback like Sanders, an unreliable offensive line could lead to constant pressure, sacks, and potentially serious injuries.

Smith, who had his own battles with offensive line struggles during his career, emphasized that a young quarterback needs time to develop and grow into the NFL. If Sanders were to start right away behind a questionable offensive line, he could face an uphill battle that might hinder his future development and even damage his confidence. The Browns, therefore, may be holding off on starting Sanders to ensure he’s not thrown into a situation where he is set up for failure.

4. The Uncertainty Surrounding Deshaun Watson’s Future

Another factor that Smith alluded to is the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Deshaun Watson’s future with the Browns. Watson’s performance has been up and down since his arrival in Cleveland, leading to questions about whether he can fully recover from his past controversies and live up to his massive contract. Smith suggested that the Browns might still be holding out hope that Watson can turn things around and become the player they envisioned when they traded for him.

If Watson can regain his form, the team may prefer to stick with him as the starter and allow Sanders to learn from the sidelines. On the other hand, if Watson’s struggles continue, the team could be forced to reconsider their quarterback situation sooner than expected. In that case, Sanders could be brought in to take over, but the timing would have to be right to ensure the team’s success in the long term.

The Future for Shedeur Sanders

As it stands, Shedeur Sanders remains one of the most promising quarterbacks in college football, and many believe that he will be a first-round pick in the upcoming NFL draft. While he isn’t starting for the Browns right now, his time will undoubtedly come—whether in Cleveland or another NFL city. His talent is undeniable, and with the right development and support, Sanders has the potential to be a game-changing quarterback in the NFL.

For now, Browns fans may have to be patient. The decision to hold off on starting Sanders may be one that benefits both the team and the young quarterback in the long run. If the Browns play their cards right, Sanders could be the future of the franchise. But for now, they seem content with allowing him to develop in a controlled, supportive environment.

Conclusion

Alex Smith’s comments have shed light on the complex factors at play in the Browns’ decision to not start Shedeur Sanders. It’s clear that the situation is more than just about talent; it involves team dynamics, long-term strategy, and a desire to protect the young quarterback from potential pitfalls. While fans may be eager to see Sanders take the field, the Browns are making a cautious, calculated decision with his future in mind.