Rex Ryan criticizes Shedeur Sanders, calling him an embarrassment

In the United States, on September 29, 2025, the Cleveland Browns faced a disappointing defeat, losing 34-10 to the Detroit Lions. This loss left the team with a 1-3 record and prompted discussions among fans and analysts about a possible switch from veteran quarterback Joe Flacco to one of their rookie quarterbacks, either Dillon Gabriel or Shedeur Sanders. Shedeur Sanders, who was previously expected to be a high draft pick, expressed confidence in his abilities, stating that he believed he could outperform several current NFL starters. In response to Sanders' comments, former NFL coach Rex Ryan, an ESPN analyst, aggressively criticized him during a segment on "Get Up." Ryan labeled Sanders an “embarrassment” and implied that the young quarterback needed to focus more on studying the game instead of making bold claims about his potential. His remarks emphasized the pressure and expectations placed on Sanders, who has struggled to establish himself as the Browns' starting quarterback despite showing promise in training camp. The criticism from Ryan was publicly supported by Pilar Sanders, Shedeur’s mother, who took to social media to denounce Ryan's comments. She referred to his remarks as “cancerous” and suggested that there was an element of racism in his critique. Pilar’s response highlighted the potential implications of public criticism on young athletes, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds in professional sports. The controversy sparked debates among fans, commentators, and analysts regarding how younger players are treated and the accountability of established figures in the sport. Head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the situation, noting that all quarterbacks, including rookies and veterans, were working hard and striving to improve. He emphasized preparation and accountability, aiming to foster a supportive environment that allows players to grow and develop their skills. The ongoing turmoil surrounding the quarterback situation, compounded by Ryan's public comments, could impact team morale and the public perception of both Shedeur Sanders and the Browns as they navigate the challenges of their season.