UPDATE: Johnny Manziel has voiced his confidence in Shedeur Sanders as he navigates a challenging first NFL training camp with the Cleveland Browns. In an exclusive interview with USA Today on Thursday, Manziel praised Sanders, stating he is “well prepared for the moment” despite recent setbacks.
Sanders, the son of Pro Football Hall of Fame legend Deion Sanders, has faced scrutiny throughout the pre-draft process, which contributed to his unexpected drop to the fifth round of the NFL Draft. Manziel noted that Sanders possesses a unique skill set, calling him “different than a lot of guys you’re going to see around the league.”
“He’s done the right thing every step of the way,” Manziel said. “At the same time, you want to continue to be yourself. Don’t change what’s made you great.”
Last weekend, Sanders showcased his talent in his preseason debut against the Carolina Panthers, throwing for 138 yards and two touchdowns on 14 of 23 passes. However, his progress hit a snag this week as he sustained an oblique strain during a joint practice with the Philadelphia Eagles, putting him in a day-to-day recovery situation.
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed the news, emphasizing the need for caution. “We want to be smart about his recovery. He’s a thrower — you can’t push that thing,” he stated during a press conference on Thursday.
As of now, it appears that Sanders will not participate in this weekend’s preseason game against the Eagles. The team is prioritizing his health as they look to navigate the remainder of training camp.
With the NFL season fast approaching, the spotlight remains on Sanders. His ability to recover quickly and perform will be critical for both his career trajectory and the Browns’ quarterback depth. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as the situation develops.
For now, the urgency surrounds not just Sanders’ performance but also how he manages this injury as he aims to solidify his position in the league. Stay tuned for further updates on his condition and training camp progress.