Following Shedeur Sanders\u2019 entry into the NFL, expectations for his \u2018year two\u2019 focus on transition to being the full-time leader of the Cleveland Browns offense after a promising but bumpy rookie campaign.<\/p>\n
So what should everyone see as he prepares for 2026?<\/span><\/p>\n After spending the first half of his rookie year behind veteran Joe Flacco,<\/a> Shedeur took over the starting role in Week 12. In year two, he is expected to compete with Browns quarterback DeShaun Watson<\/a> for the starting job.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n In eight games as a rookie, Shedeur threw for 1,400 yards and seven touchdowns with the Browns. The primary goal in his second season will be cutting down on the ten interceptions he threw in that stretch.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n With a full NFL offseason with the Browns\u2019 playbook, the expectation is for his completion percentage (68.1%) to climb closer to the elite 74% mark he cut during his final year at Colorado.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n One of the biggest storylines heading into this season was a change in identity. Sanders is officially switching from No. 12 to No. 2 after wide receiver DeAndre Carter<\/a> left in free agency. This move aligns him with the \u2018legendary\u2019 branding he used at Jackson State and Colorado. This move by his father, Deion Sanders<\/a>, has already publicly celebrated as a return to form.<\/span><\/p>\n A lingering issue from his college days that followed him to Cleveland was holding the football too long. Year two will be a test of his internal clock against NFL pass rushers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Unfortunately, the Browns offense is in a bit of a transition period. Sanders will have to establish chemistry with a receiving core that has seen some veteran departures.<\/span><\/p>\n Sanders signed a historic rookie deal that included a \u201cPrime Equity\u201d clause. This is a game-changer for NFL contracts. He is repeatedly the first player to negotiate a direct share of team revenue. This is specifically linked to his name, image, and likeness (NIL) and merchandise sales.<\/span><\/p>\n Surprisingly despite being a fifth round pick, his jersey sales (both No. 12 and No. 2) have outpaced many first rounders. In his second year, expect him to lean into \u201cS2\u201d branded apparel, effectively turning his locker room presence into a retail operation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Unlike traditional quarterbacks, who often go into the darkness during the season, Sanders will be expected to continue his heavy digital presence. If done the wrong way, business will be over football. But if done correctly and used efficiently, the NFL could use him as the next big thing.<\/span><\/p>\n Main Image: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\nPractices for Shedeur Sanders for 2026 NFL Season<\/h2>\n
Full-Time Starter Leap<\/h4>\n
Return to No. 2<\/h4>\n
Business in Cleveland<\/h4>\n