If you’ve been following us on GloryColorado.com, this won’t surprise you. Yet another NFL analyst believes Shedeur Sanders will win the Cleveland Browns starting job.
This time it's Louis Riddick.
The former NFL safety and respected ESPN analyst didn’t hedge or sugarcoat it. On Get Up this morning, Riddick confidently declared that Sanders has what it takes to become the Browns starting quarterback this season.
"I wouldn’t be shocked to see Shedeur Sanders win the starting job out of camp. I’m a believer in the guy, I’m a believer in his talent, I’m a believer in his makeup… in his football horsepower."ESPN's Louis Riddick
Riddick’s comments come on the heels of Sanders' encouraging showing at Cleveland's rookie minicamp, where multiple reports noted the former Colorado quarterback’s arm strength, poise, and ability to connect at all levels of the field.
While the Browns are expected to conduct an open competition through training camp, Riddick’s endorsement adds weight to what has quietly become the league’s most dramatic quarterback battles in years.
A Timeline to Watch: Week 7
Riddick also floated a possible entry point for Sanders into the starting lineup: Week 7, when the Browns host the Miami Dolphins.
“If you’re looking to really set him up, I think Week 7 — home against the Dolphins — could be the spot,” Riddick said. “I don’t see it as ridiculous at all. I think he has as good a chance as any to surprise some people.”
The game, a midseason home contest, would offer a less hostile environment than opening on the road — and comes at a point where early-season quarterback performance could prompt a change.
The Browns, coming off a 4–13 season, are entering a transition year under increased scrutiny. If Sanders continues to impress this summer, there’s little doubt he’ll have a chance to take control of the offense sooner rather than later.
The Intangibles Matter
While Sanders will need to prove he can handle NFL speed and complexity, Riddick’s confidence stems from more than tape.
The ESPN analyst has been praising Sanders’ composure, intelligence, and leadership since the draft.
Riddick also believes he will benefit from a Cleveland offensive staff that includes new quarterbacks coach Bill Musgrave and offensive coordinator Tommy Rees.
For Colorado fans, Riddick’s belief in Shedeur Sanders won’t come as a surprise.
But now the stakes are different — and the platform even bigger. The competition in Cleveland will be fierce, and Sanders will have to prove himself all over again.
Still, one thing is certain: the opportunity is there.
And if Sanders capitalizes, Louis Riddick will be one of many to say, I told you so.
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