Get ready for a thrilling twist in the world of NFL quarterback prospects! Shedeur Sanders' path to the starting role for the Cleveland Browns just got a whole lot clearer.
Dante Moore, the highly touted Oregon quarterback, has made a bold move by returning to college for another season. This decision, announced on Wednesday, has sent shockwaves through the football community, but it could be a game-changer for Sanders.
Moore, at just 20 years old, was expected to be one of the top picks in the upcoming NFL Draft. The Browns, with their high draft picks (No. 6 and No. 24 overall), had their eyes on him, along with Alabama's Ty Simpson. However, with Moore's decision to stay in college, the quarterback landscape has shifted dramatically.
Now, the Browns are left with a limited pool of top-tier quarterback prospects. Only Fernando Mendoza from Indiana and Simpson are considered top-tier, which means the Browns might struggle to find a quarterback worthy of their No. 6 pick. Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner, is almost certain to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Raiders.
But here's where it gets controversial... Moore's absence also makes it challenging for the Browns to trade out of their No. 6 pick. They might have to stick with their original plan and select a quarterback, which could be a make-or-break decision for the franchise.
And this is the part most people miss... Moore's decision to return to Oregon for the 2027 season means he'll be part of a loaded quarterback class, including Arch Manning from Texas and LaNorris Sellers from South Carolina. It's a class that could be even more competitive than this year's.
Browns GM Andrew Berry wisely pointed out that it's too early to predict the strength of next year's quarterback class. Just look at how the draft predictions for this year turned out! Sanders, who was expected to go No. 2 to the Browns, ended up being selected in the fifth round.
"There's a lot of work to be done with this entire draft class," Berry said. "And we want to do it in partnership with our new head coach. It's a long process to assess this year's passers."
The winningest quarterback in the 2025 class, Tyler Shough, was drafted by the Saints in the second round. He finished with a 5-4 record and earned a starting role for the 2026 season. This shows that draft position isn't everything, and development is key.
Berry isn't ready to commit to Sanders as the starter for next season. He emphasized that the new head coach will have a significant say in the matter. With a healthy Deshaun Watson also in the mix, the competition for the starting role will be fierce.
"We've seen great progress from Shedeur this year," Berry said. "He's improved mentally and physically. He's still a work in progress, but we've seen his playmaking ability, accuracy, and his ability to extend plays with his feet. Our offensive staff has done a great job in developing his pocket management and situational awareness."
The Browns are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to find the right quarterback. Berry understands the importance of this position and the impact it can have on the team's success.
"Quarterback is the most important position in sports. We need to get it right. We'll evaluate all options, whether it's internal, external, or through the draft. Our priority is finding a leader for the organization, and that's our focus right now."
Veterans like Mac Jones and Malik Willis could be potential options, and the Browns will thoroughly evaluate other quarterbacks in the class, such as Carson Beck from Miami, John Mateer from Oklahoma, and Drew Allar from Penn State.
If the Browns don't draft a quarterback at No. 6 or trade up, they can still select one at No. 24 or in a later round. Or, they could opt to acquire extra draft capital for next season and be well-positioned to select one of the top quarterbacks in the 2027 class, which looks promising.
As for Moore, his decision to return to Oregon after a multi-turnover performance in the CFP semifinals was a tough one. He gave up nearly $50 million in guaranteed money, but he believes he has more to learn and achieve with his college team. Last year's No. 2 pick, Travis Hunter, received a fully guaranteed contract worth $46.65 million from the Jaguars.
"I've had great throws and plays this year, but I feel I can learn so much more," Moore said. "I've dreamed of being in the NFL since I was a kid, but this team has been through a lot, and we've got exciting things ahead. I'm excited to keep pushing my team."
Moore, with his impressive stats (71.8% completion rate, 3,565 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions), now has the chance to win a national championship with the Ducks and potentially be the No. 1 overall pick in 2027.
So, what do you think? Is Shedeur Sanders the answer for the Browns? Or will they look elsewhere? The future of the Browns' quarterback position is up for debate, and we want to hear your thoughts in the comments!
