Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward praises rookie QB Shedeur Sanders for his year one development and is hopeful for more in 2026
Todd Monken has a big decision to make when it comes to the Cleveland Browns quarterback position.
As things stand right now, Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel occupy the team's QB room. All three could have a shot at convincing Monken they're the man for the job this offseason.
And while the first-time head man could also explore outside options, whether that be through free agency or the NFL Draft, many of Sanders' own teammates have vouched for him being a legitimate starting option after a promising rookie season.
Add cornerback Denzel Ward to the list of Sanders' supporters, who want to see more.
In a conversation with former NFL cornerback Richard Sherman, Ward gave some honest feedback on the young signal caller and
"He was just a rookie," said Ward. "He got all the confidence in the word, I think you need that at the quarterback position. I think he gonna continue to develop and grow into a great player. He made some mistakes, but I mean, that's expected for a rookie. But just his growth and his willingness to wanna learn and get better, I think is gonna go a long way for him."
Sanders' rookie season certainly came with some ups and downs. In eight appearances, seven of which came as a starter, Sanders completed 120-of-212 passes for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
Still, Sanders brought a noticeable spark to the offense down the home stretch of the season and earned three of the Browns' five wins down the home stretch of the season.
Ward certainly isn't alone in believing there is more to come from Sanders. Star defensive end Myles Garrett made it known in a conversation with Micah Parsons that he believes Sanders has earned an opportunity to showcase what he can do in his second year in the league.
Whether or not Monken agrees is the key, though. His true plans for the quarterback position will come to light in the coming weeks as free agency opens up in mid-March and the NFL Draft looms large in April.
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