Cleveland Browns rookie linebacker Carson Schwesinger has voiced significant commendation for his fellow newcomer, quarterback Sanders. Schwesinger's remarks highlight Sanders' exceptional composure and evolution in directing the offense, noting these qualities as crucial for a first-year player. Despite his initial statistics being somewhat reserved, Sanders' demonstrated capacity to manage the demands of an NFL starting role has firmly established him as a leading candidate for the team's permanent quarterback position.
During an appearance on NFL Network's "The Insiders," Schwesinger, who himself earned the AP Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2025, praised Sanders' ability to command the offense as a rookie. Schwesinger remarked on the inherent difficulty of such a task, drawing a parallel to his own experience of being thrust into the 'green dot' role for Cleveland's defense after veteran linebacker Jordan Hicks' unexpected retirement during training camp. This shared experience of immediate, high-pressure responsibility appears to have fostered a mutual respect and understanding between the two rookies.
Sanders' 2025 season saw him complete 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards, with seven touchdowns and ten interceptions over eight appearances and seven starts. While these numbers might not be overwhelmingly impressive, Schwesinger's observations underscore the non-statistical aspects of Sanders' performance that caught the attention of his teammates. The rookie quarterback's unflappable demeanor and continuous improvement each week were particularly notable, traits that transcend mere statistics and point to a promising future.
Schwesinger's praise for Sanders' poise and growth is a significant endorsement, especially coming from a teammate who understands the pressures of a rookie season in the NFL. These qualities, recognized by his peers, could play a crucial role as the Browns' front office and new head coach Todd Monken evaluate their options for the quarterback position this offseason. While the team intends to keep all possibilities open, Sanders' demonstrated leadership and calm under pressure have undeniably placed him squarely in the running for the starting job, reflecting a consensus among those who witnessed his performance firsthand.
The collective recognition of Sanders' mental fortitude and consistent development by his teammates, particularly by a high-achieving peer like Schwesinger, underscores his potential beyond statistical output. This internal support and visible growth make a compelling case for Sanders as the Browns consider their long-term plans at the quarterback position, suggesting a foundational level of maturity and capability that is rare for a first-year player.