Jamie Foxx takes on the persona of his famous character to back Shedeur Sanders amid criticism following his Browns debut
In the world of American football, the Cleveland Browns are keeping a close eye on rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. After a controversial start to his NFL career, Sanders is making a strong case for the starting quarterback job in the 2025 season.
Sanders, the son of Hall of Fame football player Deion Sanders, impressed in his preseason debut against the Carolina Panthers. He went 14-for-23, throwing for 138 yards and two touchdowns, a performance that was widely praised in the football world. However, Sanders himself was not too pleased with his own performance, expressing his desire for improvement.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski has acknowledged Sanders' strong case and plans to give him more reps in the Week 2 preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles. This move indicates the team is seriously evaluating Sanders as a potential starter. Sanders' performance in rookie minicamp and practice has been impressive, but he has not consistently taken first-team reps, with Dillon Gabriel currently getting more opportunities with the starters.
Sanders was projected as a first-round pick but was selected in the fifth round, raising questions about his draft status versus potential. However, he has impressed with his accuracy and experience so far, despite some concerns about arm strength and interceptions. Sanders' recent oblique injury raised doubts about his availability, but reports suggest he is expected to play in Week 2 of preseason, providing another chance to compete for the starting role.
The quarterback competition remains tight, with Gabriel and veterans like Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett also in the running. Flacco, the presumptive Week 1 starter, did not suit up for the preseason game due to an undisclosed injury. Pickett and Gabriel are both dealing with hamstring injuries, allowing Sanders to start the preseason game.
Actor Jamie Foxx, known for his roles in films like Ray and Collateral, has shown his support for Sanders. Foxx made a social media video in support of Sanders, channeling one of his iconic roles as 'Steamin' Willie Beamen from Friday Night Lights. In the video, Foxx praised Sanders and criticized the haters of the young quarterback. Deion Sanders, Shedeur's father, also praised his son's performance.
As the preseason progresses, Sanders will need to demonstrate consistency and health to earn the starting role definitively. Sports writer Scott Thompson, who covers sports for our website Digital, will continue to bring you updates on Sanders and the Cleveland Browns as they prepare for the 2025 season.
Sanders' impressive preseason debut, where he threw for 138 yards and two touchdowns in a game against the Carolina Panthers, has sparked interest in American sports, particularly football, with many speculating whether he can claim the starting quarterback position for the NFL's Cleveland Browns in the 2025 season. Despite controversy surrounding his draft status, Sanders, a potential contender for the starting role, has the support of acting icon Jamie Foxx, a fan who channels his role as Steamin' Willie Beamen from Friday Night Lights in a social media video praising Sanders.
