10/18/2026
🚨 Shedeur Sanders’ camp sends a clear, informative message on the Browns trade.
Shedeur Sanders’ camp is pushing back on rumors that the Browns quarterback hired an agent to pursue a fresh start with another team. Sanders formally signed with Young Money APAA Sports this week, while continuing to serve as the backup to Deshaun Watson. The move sparked questions about whether Sanders, now in his second NFL season and largely unused this year, was seeking a change of scenery.
Two sources close to the situation clarified that the representation change was not about seeking a trade. Sanders has had ties to Young Money since before the 2025 NFL Draft but only formalized the relationship this week. This development is described as building out his team in preparation for his ongoing NFL career, not pursuing a move to a different team.
Lil Wayne, co-founder of Young Money APAA Sports, discussed Sanders’ situation during a public appearance, expressing confidence that the quarterback will get his opportunity with the Browns. Sanders previously navigated the draft and signed his rookie contract without an agent after being selected in the fifth round in 2025. He later hired agency chief Adie von Gontard, who also represents his former Colorado teammate Travis Hunter.
The Browns face an ongoing conversation at quarterback. Sanders has thrown only one pass this season, completing it for no gain, following a rookie year in which he started seven games and completed 56.6% of his attempts for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. Watson won the starting job this summer, and Cleveland has a 3-2 record entering a matchup with the Baltimore Ravens, albeit with uneven quarterback play. In a loss to the New York Jets, Watson completed 15 of 33 passes for 155 yards and a touchdown while absorbing eight sacks.
There are reasons for Cleveland to retain Sanders beyond his immediate backup role. General manager Andrew Berry has remained supportive of Sanders, with early-season progress noted during training camp and the preseason. Sanders is under rookie contract through 2028, while Watson is in the final season of his deal, giving the Browns a young, affordable option as they consider their long-term plans at the position. For now, Sanders remains next in line behind Watson.