Shedeur Sanders, son of Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round of the NFL draft, despite previous warnings from his father about avoiding the franchise. Deion Sanders had earlier advised young quarterbacks to steer clear of the Browns, referencing Eli Manning's refusal to play for the Chargers in 2004. Despite not being a top-five pick as his father predicted, Shedeur expressed gratitude upon being drafted. The quarterback will join a crowded Cleveland roster featuring Deshaun Watson and Joe Flacco, among others. Deion has emphasized allowing his son to excel against challenges without orchestrating his draft position.

Deion Sanders previously advised young quarterbacks to avoid the Cleveland Browns, comparing the situation to Eli Manning's decision in 2004 to refuse playing for the Chargers, which led to him being traded to the New York Giants.

Despite the advice, Shedeur Sanders, Deion's son, was drafted by the Browns in the fifth round of the NFL draft, expressing gratitude with a message on social media.

Deion Sanders had publicly stated his belief that Shedeur would be a top-five draft pick, a prediction that did not come to pass, leading to some scrutiny of his earlier comments.

Shedeur Sanders will join a competitive quarterback lineup in Cleveland, which includes players like Deshaun Watson, who is recovering from an Achilles injury, and Joe Flacco, who recently rejoined the team.

Deion Sanders clarified his stance on his son's draft proceedings, emphasizing that he would not interfere with God's plan and preferred to see Shedeur succeed against adversity.

The Browns had initially passed on Shedeur Sanders in the third round, opting to draft Dillon Gabriel instead, before trading up to secure Sanders in the fifth round.

Shedeur had a successful 2024 college season with 4,134 passing yards, and his father views the challenges and criticisms as additional motivation for his son to prove himself in the NFL.