Draft controversy surrounding Shedeur Sanders: Cleveland Browns allegedly compelled to choose Colorado standout; assertion of a made phone call

NFL Draft 2023: Cleveland Browns Draft Shedeur Sanders Despite Alleged Efforts to Keep Him Undrafted

In an unexpected turn of events, the Cleveland Browns selected Shedeur Sanders as the 144th overall pick in the NFL Draft, despite reports suggesting that league officials had urged teams not to draft the quarterback.

According to Pro Football Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson, he has a source who claimed that NFL officials reached out to teams, including the Browns, asking them not to pick Sanders. Dickerson also stated that someone called the Cleveland Browns directly and asked them not to draft the young quarterback.

However, the Browns, who have confirmed that Joe Flacco will start as quarterback in Week 1, decided to take a chance on Sanders. The team's decision to draft him in the fifth round was a surprise, as Sanders was initially expected to be picked in the first round.

The reasons behind the reported efforts to prevent Sanders from being drafted are still unclear. Some speculate that it was a move to demonstrate the consequences of Sanders' actions, but the identity of the person who made the call to the Cleveland Browns remains unknown.

Sanders' camp or advisors reportedly advised him to skip the draft to allow him more time to develop and prepare for a future draft. However, no official NFL or team organization is said to have ordered him to skip the draft.

Sanders and third-round pick Dillon Gabriel are now expected to compete for the quarterback position 2 (QB2) in Cleveland. The Browns' decision to draft Sanders despite the alleged pressure not to could be a strategic move, as the team looks to the future and potentially finds their next franchise quarterback.

The NFL's reported actions towards Sanders have raised questions about their influence and decision-making processes. Some argue that the league has significant power and engages in various activities, while others question the fairness of such actions.

This development in the NFL Draft has certainly created a buzz, and the future of Shedeur Sanders in the league remains to be seen. As he prepares to join the Browns, Sanders will have to prove himself and live up to the expectations set by his unexpected selection.

Draft controversy surrounding Shedeur Sanders: Cleveland Browns allegedly compelled to choose Colorado standout; assertion of a made phone call