The Cleveland Browns aren’t expected to make a major trade to bolster their offense this season, a stance that could have ramifications for rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com shared her insight during an appearance on the “Baskin and Phelps” show on 92.3 The Fan when asked whether the team might pursue Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin.
While Cabot didn’t rule out the possibility, she made it clear that the Browns are unlikely to swing a deal for a high-profile pass-catcher this year.
“The Browns will always check in on anything like that. They will always do that,” Cabot said. “But I don’t get the sense that they are clamoring for a big, high-priced wide receiver this season. If they’re going to do something like that, it’s going to be next season, when they potentially add the quarterback of the future. This year, they’re probably not going to break the bank on something like that.”
Browns May Go in Different Direction at QB Next Year
The Browns’ reluctance to make a significant move could leave their offense thin on proven playmakers. Beyond Jerry Jeudy, Cleveland’s receiving corps lacks established depth, which could limit the weapons available to any quarterback under center this season.
More significantly, the team’s approach hints at its long-term thinking at quarterback. If Sanders doesn’t get a real opportunity to showcase his potential this season, he could find himself in limbo, especially with the Browns holding two first-round picks in the 2026 draft. Without a clear-cut answer emerging from the current group, Cleveland could opt to reset the quarterback room entirely next offseason.
Sanders is currently competing for playing time in a crowded group that includes veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, along with fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel. That’s not to mention Deshaun Watson and his $230 million contract. Watson is recovering from an Achilles injury and he’s expected to miss most, if not all, of next season.
Shedeur Sanders Focused on Being ‘Best Teammate’ With Browns
Sanders entered the draft with first-round buzz, thanks to his name recognition and college resume. But concerns about his character and pro-readiness caused him to slide all the way to the fifth round.
Sanders finds himself firmly in prove-it mode with the Browns. He’ll need to seize every chance he gets to show he belongs, whether in preseason action, practice reps, or if his number is eventually called as the starter.
Through minicamp and OTAs, Sanders operated as the team’s No. 4 quarterback, receiving limited reps and no work with the starting offense. Despite the uphill climb, the former Colorado star remains patient and focused on growth.
“My goal is to be the best teammate and to be as polished as I can be in every aspect,” Sanders said. “I view things as I got time. I got time to be able to grow and mature and be able to understand the ins and outs of the defenses and be able to get the good insight from the vets in the room.
So, I look at it as a plus. I got time to actually be able to really have a great understanding and whenever it’s time for me to play, then it’s time for me to play. But I’m not looking too far in the future about all that. I’m looking [at] every day in practice. … I’m focused on the small things and over time the big things will happen.”
Sanders will get more clarity on his standing when training camp kicks off late this month.
