Shedeur Sanders has publicly stated that he only plays as the Cleveland Browns in the "Madden" video game franchise, which has sparked speculation about his preferences for the upcoming NFL Draft. In a recent vlog, he expressed a liking for the Browns' gameplay style, saying, "I like how they move around on there" and praised their setup147.
This preference has led to discussions among analysts and fans about whether it reflects a genuine interest in joining the Browns, who hold the second overall pick in the draft. Despite the team's struggles—Cleveland finished the 2024 season with a dismal 3-14 record—Sanders' comments have been interpreted by some as a strategic move. Analysts suggest that he might be using this affinity to influence his draft stock or to create a smokescreen for other teams235.
Furthermore, Sanders' father, Deion Sanders, has indicated that he does not have objections to Shedeur playing for Cleveland, contrasting with his previous comments about avoiding certain franchises7. This openness may suggest that despite the Browns' tumultuous history and quarterback instability—having cycled through 40 different quarterbacks since 1999—Sanders sees potential in their roster, which includes notable talents like Myles Garrett and Nick Chubb35.
In summary, while Shedeur Sanders' preference for playing as the Browns in "Madden" could be seen as a reflection of their underdog status, it also appears to be part of a broader strategy as he navigates his path toward the NFL Draft.