Shedeur Sanders criticized by ex‑NFL coach Rex Ryan as Browns QB battle heats up

Shedeur Sanders Rex Ryan Cleveland Browns quarterback competition off‑field criticism

Former NFL head coach and ESPN analyst Rex Ryan publicly attacked Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders, focusing on the young player's off‑field behavior and perceived arrogance. Ryan said, “Get a load of this kid… Great talent needs to realize as a ‘franchise’ QB there has to be more we than me… Quit being an embarrassment,” and added that Sanders “talks and runs his mouth.” Sanders’ mother, Pilar Sanders, responded on social media with “Yes, eat it up Rex.”

The criticism comes as Sanders, a fifth‑round 2025 draftee who posted 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns and ten interceptions in seven starts last season, competes with veteran Deshaun Watson for the Browns’ starting quarterback role ahead of the 2026 training camp. He remains one of the league’s most recognizable young players, drawing attention for both his on‑field performance and off‑field presence.