Shedeur Sanders' NFL Future: Can Injury Clause Let Browns Walk Away?

Shedeur Sanders, the Cleveland Browns' rookie quarterback and son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, may be facing an uncertain future after missing part of training camp with a shoulder injury. Drafted in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders is now fighting for a roster spot as speculation mounts over whether an injury clause in his rookie deal could allow the Browns to walk away from the quarterback before the regular season begins.

From College Star to Fifth-Round Gamble

Sanders entered the draft after a record-setting season at the University of Colorado, where he threw for 3,230 yards and 27 touchdowns. Once projected as a first- or second-round pick, he slid to No. 144 overall. Analysts pointed to off-field distractions and an unconventional path through college football as factors in his draft-day drop.

As a fifth-round pick, Sanders' contract likely includes standard injury protection clauses, which enable teams to release or renegotiate terms if a player fails to meet physical requirements during training camp.

Shoulder Soreness Sidelines Sanders During Camp

Sanders was sidelined during the first week of Browns camp with shoulder soreness, missing Day 4 and participating only in a limited capacity until Day 10. While he later returned to full training, the early setback prompted questions about his durability in a crowded quarterback room.

According to TalkSport, some within the organisation believe the missed time could influence Sanders' roster chances. Former NFL quarterback Kurt Benkert told the outlet that mid-camp absences like Sanders' are often 'what they do before a trade', fuelling speculation about a possible move.

Trade Talk Swirls as Browns Evaluate Options

Cleveland currently has one of the NFL's most crowded quarterback rooms, with veteran Joe Flacco, former Steeler Kenny Pickett and third-round pick Dillon Gabriel joining Sanders in the lineup. Recent reports suggest Gabriel has taken the bulk of first-team reps, pushing Sanders down the depth chart.

The Sun also reported that Sanders' training camp absence has intensified trade speculation, with the Colts and Patriots reportedly monitoring the situation. Sanders described the shoulder issue as a 'recurring adjustment-related discomfort' from his college days, downplaying its severity.

How Injury Clauses Could Influence the Browns' Decision

NFL rookie contracts often include injury clauses allowing teams to release or place players on injured reserve without significant financial liability if health concerns arise. According to Sports Illustrated, such clauses give teams flexibility during roster cutdowns and are common in mid- to late-round deals like Sanders'.

If Sanders' shoulder continues to affect his performance or availability, the Browns could invoke such a clause to create space for quarterbacks higher on the depth chart or to facilitate a trade.

Upcoming Pre-Season Match Could Be Decisive

Sanders is expected to feature in the Browns' pre-season opener against the Carolina Panthers on 8 August. With the Browns required to finalise their 53-man roster by the end of August, the game could be decisive in determining his NFL future.

The rookie will need to prove both his fitness and readiness to compete at the pro level, whether to secure a roster spot in Cleveland or showcase his value to potential trade suitors.