The Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders took advantage of his first NFL opportunity Friday night. Sanders started the team’s preseason opener and delivered a performance that caught attention across the league.
The same morning, his father Deion Sanders posted about seizing opportunities on social media.
“We all have needs & we all desire Opportunity! If given opportunity u may not be where u are now. Opportunity is like the dream we had when we were younger. We must be prepared for the opportunity we’re praying for. The right opportunity will change your life.”
Sanders played three quarters against the Panthers and put up solid numbers for his NFL debut.
Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed four times for 19 yards, according to ClevelandBrowns.com’s Noah Monroe.
Former NFL quarterback Kurt Benkert praised Sanders’ composure during the game. Benkert noted that Sanders stayed calm while working with backup players against first and second-string defenders.
“Starters came out by this point, but before this he still looked calm and in command,” Benkert wrote. “Was taking with the defense gave him, was on time and accurate. Had a few plays he wished that he had back but he’s playing with third and fourth string guys against 1’s and 2’s. Solid.”
Nike Makes Statement
After the game, Nike released a new advertisement featuring Sanders. The timing sent a clear message about the company’s confidence in the rookie quarterback.
Nike’s ad for Shedeur Sanders following his preseason debut with the Browns. pic.twitter.com/fuGV6z8PiX
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) August 9, 2025
The advertisement reflects growing excitement around Sanders’ potential. He’s working to prove he should have been drafted higher and belongs among the league’s top quarterbacks.
Sanders will need to build on this performance as the Browns evaluate their quarterback room during training camp.
The Nike campaign signals the company’s belief in Sanders’ marketability and future success. For other teams that passed on Sanders in the draft, it might serve as an early reminder of what they’re missing.
