The Cleveland Browns are dealing with early concerns about rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders after he received two speeding citations last week.
The 23-year-old was cited twice by police for excessive speeding. While no one was hurt and the violations weren’t serious crimes, the back-to-back incidents have raised questions about Sanders’ decision-making off the field.
Sanders had been earning positive reviews for his work ethic and performance during recent minicamp sessions.
But the speeding tickets could overshadow that progress with the organization.
John Middlekuff, a former Philadelphia Eagles scout and current FOX Sports analyst, believes the focus on Sanders’ recent citations is missing a bigger picture. Speaking on “The Herd,” Middlekuff offered a harsh assessment of how Sanders handled the pre-draft process.
“I think we’re making too much of the speeding tickets and didn’t make enough of the leadup [to the draft] and the disaster it was before it happened. It couldn’t have gone worse for Shedeur. I don’t think this is going to work because it’s the Browns, but younger people go a lot faster than they used to. Not a great way to start, though.”
First impressions carry significant weight in the NFL.
Sanders was building positive momentum with Cleveland’s coaching staff and front office. The speeding incidents represent the same type of questionable choices that drew criticism during his time at Colorado.
Unlike his college career, Sanders no longer has the built-in advantages he previously enjoyed. He doesn’t have his father as head coach to provide cover for off-field issues.
Sanders needs to adapt quickly to professional expectations. If he can’t demonstrate better judgment, Cleveland could cut ties with him before the season begins.
The Browns invested significant resources in Sanders as their franchise quarterback of the future. These early missteps create unnecessary distractions as he tries to establish himself in the organization.
