Shedeur Sanders makes jaw-dropping move backing Deshaun Watson in Cleveland Browns locker room

A startling twist is emerging in Cleveland. Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders has openly leaned on veteran Deshaun Watson, despite Watson’s recent setbacks. This unexpected bond has caught fans off guard and sparked strong reactions heading into the 2025 NFL season.

Shedeur Sanders credits Deshaun Watson for fast‑track mentorship

Cleveland starting QB Shedeur Sanders, son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, began leaning on Deshaun Watson after Watson suffered a torn Achilles on October 20, 2024. At that time, fans even cheered when Watson was injured during a game against the Bengals in Cincinnati—an incident Deion Sanders later defended. Now, according to Browns reporter Mary Kay Cabot, Watson "has taken Sanders under his wing to help him come up the learning curve quickly and it’s been working”.

Watson, once a star in Houston, brings a mix of NFL experience, playoffs know‑how, and recent struggles with form and off‑field issues. Yet he has remained a steady figure in meetings and team drills. For Sanders, this guidance offers insights beyond playbooks—covering mental prep, leadership, and recovery from setbacks.

Browns insiders call partnership a bold gamble with high stakes

Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam admitted in March 2025 that trading heavily to acquire Watson was “a big swing and a miss” .

With Watson’s reputation under fire and on a humanitarian suspension earlier in the year, some analysts see his role as mentor as risky.Still, Watson continues serving as a sounding board. He reportedly offers Sanders advice on reading defenses and trusting his arm strength. This dynamic has divided fans, some see it as savvy wealth of knowledge for a young QB, others worry exposure to Watson’s baggage could distract Sanders.Also Read: Shedeur Sanders Sends Strong Message To Cleveland Browns Critics While Fighting For QB Spot And Supporting His DadWith the Browns aiming to make a playoff leap, this unconventional pairing could pay off or backfire under pressure. For now, the team and fans watch closely as Shedeur Sanders draws lessons from Watson, redefining what veteran leadership looks like in modern NFL history.