Shedeur Sanders experienced a lopsided rookie campaign with the Cleveland Browns. Once projected by many as a potential first-round pick, Sanders slid to the fifth round (144th overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft, becoming one of the draft’s biggest talking points. He began the season buried on the depth chart as a third-string option but gradually worked his way into the rotation.
His opportunity came in Week 11, when he made his NFL debut in relief following an injury to Dillon Gabriel. A week later, Sanders earned his first career start in Week 12 against the Las Vegas Raiders, leading the Browns to a 24-10 win while throwing for 209 yards with a touchdown and an interception.
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Sanders went on to start the remaining games to close the season. He appeared in eight games (seven starts), throwing for 1,400 yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Sanders was also selected to the Pro Bowl in his first season.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12).© Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
(© Ken Blaze-Imagn Images)
However, despite finishing the season as Cleveland’s starting quarterback, there remains uncertainty heading into 2026. Veteran Deshaun Watson is expected to return from injury, and the Browns could explore additional competition at the position, leaving Sanders’ role unsettled.
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While Sanders’ status remains unclear as he prepares for his second season as a pro, his profile outside of the NFL has continued to rise. He was recently named Google’s most searched athlete in the United States in 2025. His popularity has also allowed him to build his personal brand and earn lucrative deals.
On Sunday, Sanders announced his latest brand move with a direct request to his followers.
“Follow @ss2legendary,” he wrote on his Instagram stories.
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“SS2 Legendary” appears to be part of Sanders’ expanding fashion portfolio and adds to a growing list of off-field ventures. Already one of the most marketable young players in the league, Sanders has secured multiple brand deals and continues to position himself as both an athlete and entrepreneur.
His endorsement lineup includes deals with Nike, Beats by Dre, Gatorade, AT&T, and BRADY Brand, along with partnerships spanning Mercedes-Benz, KFC, Ralph Lauren, Delta Air Lines, Google, Under Armour, Oikos, Urban Outfitters, Topps, and Actively Black.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.