When Shedeur Sanders faced an unexpected drop in the NFL Draft last month, former President Donald Trump took to social media to show his backing for the quarterback.
“I was really grateful. Really,” Sanders, 23, shared with reporters on Saturday. “People at the barber shop, many hairstylists, my family, they all supported me. I felt lucky to have that kind of foundation.”
Trump voiced his frustration on social media, questioning why the former Colorado standout wasn’t picked sooner. “What’s wrong with the NFL owners? Are they stupid? Dion Sanders was not just a fantastic college player, but a significant presence in the NFL too. He’s also a smart coach!”
He added that Sanders “should be chosen” right away by a team that aims to succeed, sending good wishes and saying hello to his father.
The Cleveland Browns ultimately selected Sanders, choosing him as their 144th overall pick in the fifth round, where he will vie for the starting quarterback role.
Sanders is one of five quarterbacks on the roster, and the Browns currently lack a clear starter. Dehaun Watson had surgery on a tendon in October 2024, followed by a second rupture of his Achilles in January.
The Browns also traded for Kenny Pickett from the Philadelphia Eagles and signed Joe Flacco to a one-year contract before the NFL Draft. With the addition of Sanders and another draft pick, Dilon Gabriel, it’s uncertain who will get the starting nod in the first week.
Sanders and Gabriel first took the field during the team’s inaugural rookie minicamp.
