Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders said his “job here isn’t to prove people wrong” but to “prove myself right” as he spoke to the media for the first time since his dramatic slide and fifth round selection during the NFL Draft. The 144th pick is among the next generation of NFL players being put through their paces with rookie minicamps taking place across the league. And, after being one of the main storylines during the NFL draft, the 23-year-old said he is grateful for the opportunity with the Cleveland Browns. “I’m just thankful for the opportunity. Things could have been a lot worse, but I’m here smiling in front of you all at this facility right now.” Such was the discussion around Sanders’ slide down the draft, US President Donald Trump even posted on social media in support of the former Colorado star. Sanders said Saturday he was “truly thankful” for the support from the president, as well as “other fans, people in barber shops, just lots of fans.” He added that “other people’s opinion of you is gonna be based off their own.” “Ninety-nine percent of hatred is towards pops and then I’m just his son, so it really just comes from that. And I’ve told him that too,” he said, laughing. Sanders is the son of Colorado Buffaloes head coach and Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. “It’s the older generation that do it to me rather than the younger people because when I come in person there’s no negativity I see,” he added. “But it’s all over online.” Elsewhere at Browns practice, No. 5 pick Mason Graham was seen vomiting in his helmet after a workout. Cleveland head coach Kevin Stefanski joked that he may have had too many wings before practice. “He did, that was gross,” Stefanski told reporters, confirming Graham’s struggles. “I think he ate too much. The cooking in the kitchen was too good, a few less wings next time.” It’s clear that Graham is going to leave it all on the field for the Browns, but the defensive tackle will be hoping for easier days in the future. The top two picks in the 2025 NFL Draft have also been refining their skills in their rookie minicamps. Cam Ward, the No. 1 overall pick, has been training with the Tennessee Titans looking to get sharp ahead of the new season. Ward had an impressive college career, most recently at the University of Miami, and will be hoping his collegiate performances carry over to the NFL. One of the most exciting picks of the 2025 draft was the No. 2 overall selection, Travis Hunter. Hunter has the rare ability to play on both sides of the ball and anticipation has been growing as to whether he can do this in the NFL. Fans will be eagerly waiting to see if the Heisman Trophy winner does play both offense and defense in practice and then in games as the season gets underway. The schedule for the 2025 NFL season is released on May 14 and these rookies will be hoping to be game ready for the season opener.
Shedeur Sanders aiming to ‘prove himself right’ instead of other ‘people wrong’ as he begins NFL career
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Shedeur Sanders Focuses on Personal Growth as He Begins NFL Career with Cleveland Browns"
CNN
7.7
TruthLens AI Summary
Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders addressed the media for the first time since being selected in the fifth round of the NFL Draft, expressing his focus on proving himself rather than aiming to validate the opinions of others. The 144th pick in the draft, Sanders acknowledged the challenges he faced during the selection process, but he remains optimistic and grateful for the opportunity presented to him with the Browns. He mentioned the overwhelming support he has received from fans and notable figures, including former President Donald Trump, who publicly endorsed him during the draft. Sanders emphasized the importance of self-belief, stating that external opinions are often influenced by personal biases, particularly given his lineage as the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. He humorously noted that most negativity he encounters comes from older generations, while younger fans tend to be more supportive in person.
In addition to Sanders' remarks, the Browns' rookie minicamp has showcased other new talents, including Mason Graham, the team's fifth overall pick, who humorously struggled during practice after overindulging in food. Head coach Kevin Stefanski lightheartedly commented on Graham's condition, underscoring the rigorous demands placed on rookie players as they transition to the professional level. The minicamp also features other top picks from the 2025 NFL Draft, such as Cam Ward and Travis Hunter, both of whom are working to refine their skills ahead of the upcoming season. Ward, selected first overall by the Tennessee Titans, is looking to translate his successful college career into NFL performance, while Hunter, the second overall pick, is generating excitement as a dual-threat player capable of impacting both offense and defense. As the NFL prepares for the 2025 season, fans eagerly anticipate how these rookies will adapt and contribute on the field, with the schedule set to be released soon, marking a new chapter for these emerging athletes.
TruthLens AI Analysis
Shedeur Sanders, the quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, has made headlines following his fifth-round selection in the NFL Draft. His comments reflect a mindset focused on self-validation rather than seeking external approval, which positions him as a determined athlete aiming to carve out his own legacy. The article captures not just his ambitions but also the public and media perceptions surrounding his draft experience.
Motivation and Mindset
Sanders emphasizes the importance of proving himself right rather than focusing on the skepticism from others. This perspective is significant as it highlights a common theme among athletes who face criticism or doubt. By prioritizing self-affirmation, Sanders aligns himself with a positive mental attitude, which is crucial for success in professional sports. His gratitude for the opportunity with the Browns suggests a level of maturity and resilience, indicating that he might not be easily swayed by negativity.
Public Perception
The article touches upon the mixed reactions to Sanders, particularly due to his father, Deion Sanders, a well-known figure in football. The mention of support from notable figures, including former President Trump, indicates a broader public interest in his journey. Sanders’ acknowledgment of the negative opinions stemming from his lineage provides insight into the challenges he faces, especially from older generations. It suggests that while he enjoys support from many quarters, there remains a faction that holds biases based on his family background.
Team Dynamics and Humor
In a lighter note, the article shifts focus to Mason Graham, another rookie at Browns practice, illustrating the camaraderie and challenges faced by new players. The humorous anecdote about Graham’s struggles with nausea after practice lightens the overall tone and contrasts with Sanders' serious mindset. This juxtaposition reflects the diverse experiences of rookies adapting to the intensity of NFL training.
Media Narrative and Implications
The narrative constructed around Sanders aims to foster a sense of resilience and determination, potentially inspiring fans and aspiring athletes. By framing his story as one of personal growth rather than external validation, the media may be attempting to encourage a more supportive environment for young athletes facing similar adversities. The article may intentionally downplay negative narratives to cultivate a more positive public image for Sanders as he begins his professional career.
Reliability and Manipulation
While the article presents Sanders' views and experiences authentically, the framing of his narrative could be seen as a deliberate effort to manufacture a hero's journey. The focus on his determination and gratitude may overshadow the harsher realities of being a fifth-round pick, which could be perceived as a form of manipulation. However, the overall reliability of the information seems intact, as it mainly consists of Sanders’ own words and experiences.
In conclusion, the article serves to inspire and elevate Shedeur Sanders' profile as he embarks on his NFL journey, while also reflecting on the complex dynamics of public perception influenced by familial ties. The portrayal aims to resonate with audiences that appreciate stories of perseverance, particularly in the realm of sports.