Cam Newton gives Shedeur Sanders tough love after draft debacle
- Shedeur Sanders experienced a dramatic fall in his draft stock, being chosen in the fifth round after predictions placed him in the top five.
- Cam Newton offered sage advice to Sanders, urging hard work and humility in his approach as he joins the Cleveland Browns.
- Newton sees this challenge as an opportunity for Sanders to prove himself in a competitive environment, predicting he will start for the Browns soon.
In recent NFL draft events held in the United States, Shedeur Sanders, a highly regarded collegiate quarterback, saw his stock drop significantly, being selected in the fifth round by the Cleveland Browns. This was a notable decline, as many analysts had previously projected him to be a potential top five pick. The circumstances surrounding this draft slide involved criticism of Sanders's demeanor during the pre-draft preparations, which some described as 'entitled'. In response to Sanders's situation, former NFL MVP Cam Newton shared his insights during a recent episode of his podcast, indicating the importance of adopting a more grounded approach as he transitions into a professional role. Newton conveyed a straightforward message to Sanders, stressing that he should prioritize hard work over seeking attention or clout. He articulated that a quarterback's role is to act as the 'CEO of the franchise', signaling the need for leadership qualities and a level of maturity that goes beyond performance on the field. Newton's remarks focused on the need for Sanders to connect with various stakeholders, including his team's owner, general manager, coach, teammates, and fans, emphasizing that quarterbacking is a multifaceted role that necessitates respect and responsibility. As Sanders embarks on this new phase of his career, he faces stiff competition from established players like Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, and Dillon Gabriel to earn a starting position on the Browns' roster. Despite this challenging landscape, Newton remains optimistic about Sanders's future, suggesting that this opportunity might ultimately benefit him. He believes Sanders possesses the necessary capabilities to rise to the top, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication in a sport that often scrutinizes player personalities and attitudes as much as their athletic skills. Given Newton's own history in the NFL, including his own challenges with maintaining a low profile amid his success, his advice takes on a layered significance. This mentorship example highlights the balance between spotlight and substance that all athletes must navigate. Newton's concluding thoughts indicate a hopeful perspective that, with diligence and determination, Sanders can indeed secure a starting position and prove his skills on the national stage.