Shedeur Sanders Encourages Dillon Gabriel as Browns Enter a New Era
Shedeur Sanders’ Message to Dillon Gabriel
When rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel was named the Cleveland Browns’ starter after veteran Joe Flacco was traded, backup Shedeur Sanders made sure to reach out with a message of support. Sanders, himself a rookie and the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, shared that he told Gabriel to stay focused and confident as he leads the team into a new era. “I told him to own it,” Sanders recalled. “This is your chance. Just be yourself and play your game.” Sanders, who had been preparing for his own opportunity, emphasized the importance of camaraderie in Cleveland’s young quarterback room, even as the spotlight shifted to Gabriel.
Embracing the Role and Preparing Together
Despite being inactive for the Browns’ first five games, Sanders remained engaged, helping Gabriel prepare for his first NFL start and the challenges of facing divisional rivals like the Steelers. “We’re going to make sure Dillon is ready for the game,” Sanders said, highlighting his commitment to the team’s success over individual ambition. Head coach Kevin Stefanski praised the maturity of both rookies, noting their collaborative approach during a season marked by rapid roster changes. Sanders’ willingness to support Gabriel—despite his own competitive drive—reflects the Browns’ culture of accountability and teamwork as they navigate a pivotal transition under center.
About the People Mentioned
Shedeur Sanders
Shedeur Sanders is a prominent American football player, born on February 7, 2002, in Tyler, Texas. He is the son of Deion Sanders, a legendary NFL player and coach. Shedeur began his collegiate career at Jackson State University, where he played under his father's leadership. During his time at Jackson State, he achieved significant success, leading the team to two Celebration Bowl appearances and earning numerous awards, including the Jerry Rice Award in 2021 and the SWAC Offensive Player of the Year award in 2022[5][8]. In 2023, Shedeur transferred to the University of Colorado, where his father had become the head coach. He immediately became the starting quarterback, leading the Buffaloes to notable victories and setting multiple school records. His accomplishments at Colorado included being named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2024 and winning the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award that same year[1][2][8]. He finished his collegiate career with impressive statistics, including a record-breaking 4,134 passing yards in a single season at Colorado[2]. Shedeur Sanders was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL draft, marking a significant milestone in his professional career. He signed a four-year contract with the Browns worth $4.6 million[7]. Beyond football, Shedeur has also explored his creative side, releasing a hip-hop song titled "Perfect Timing" in 2024[7]. His brother, Shilo Sanders, also plays football and was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the 2025 NFL draft[7]. Shedeur's achievements and dedication have established him as a talented and influential figure in the football world.
Dillon Gabriel
Dillon Gabriel is an American football quarterback known for his collegiate success and recent entry into the NFL. Born on December 28, 2000, in Mililani, Hawai'i, Gabriel played high school football at Mililani High School before beginning his college career at the University of Central Florida (UCF). He later transferred to the University of Oklahoma and then to the University of Oregon, where he completed his college career with exceptional achievements[3][5][1]. Gabriel is recognized for his strong arm, athleticism, and leadership both on and off the field. Over six seasons in college, he started a record 63 games, the most in Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) history, and amassed 18,722 passing yards, ranking second all-time in FBS history. He also finished his college career as the FBS all-time leader in total touchdowns with 189, tying Case Keenum for the record in passing touchdowns at 155[2][6][7]. His accolades include being a Heisman Trophy finalist, multiple All-America team selections, Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year, and the Chicago Tribune Silver Football winner. Academically, he maintained a 3.43 GPA as a multidisciplinary studies major and was honored as a National Football Foundation (NFF) National Scholar-Athlete[1][2]. In the 2025 NFL Draft, Gabriel was selected in the third round with the 94th overall pick by the Cleveland Browns, marking the start of his professional career[2][6]. His college tenure was noted for poise under pressure and a commitment to team leadership, culminating in leading Oregon to an undefeated regular season and competing for a national championship[4]. Gabriel’s football lineage includes his father, Garrett Gabriel, a former quarterback at Hawai'i. Currently, Dillon Gabriel is regarded as a promising young quarterback entering the NFL with a distinguished college legacy and strong leadership qualities.
Deion Sanders
Deion Sanders is a former professional American football cornerback and baseball outfielder, born on August 9, 1967, in Fort Myers, Florida. He played 14 seasons in the NFL for five teams: Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, Washington Redskins, and Baltimore Ravens. Sanders is widely regarded as one of the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history, known for his exceptional athleticism, versatility, and playmaking ability[1][2][6]. Sanders' football career highlights include nine All-Pro selections, eight Pro Bowl appearances, and 53 career interceptions, returning nine of them for touchdowns. He scored six punt return touchdowns, three kickoff return touchdowns, and one fumble return touchdown. Notably, in 1994 with the 49ers, he was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year and set records for interception return yards and touchdowns in a single season. Sanders won two Super Bowls: Super Bowl XXIX with the 49ers and Super Bowl XXX with the Cowboys[1][6]. In addition to football, Sanders had a professional baseball career, playing as an outfielder for several MLB teams including the New York Yankees, Cincinnati Reds, and San Francisco Giants. He is known for being a rare two-sport professional athlete, excelling in both football and baseball during the 1990s[6]. After retiring from professional sports, Sanders transitioned to broadcasting, working as an analyst for CBS and the NFL Network. He also became involved in mentoring younger athletes and embraced a religious lifestyle that shaped his personal and professional life[6]. As of recent years, Deion Sanders has remained relevant in football as a highly regarded college football coach, known for his charismatic leadership and efforts to elevate programs and players, continuing his legacy beyond his playing career.
Joe Flacco
Joseph Vincent Flacco, born January 16, 1985, in Audubon, New Jersey, is an American professional football quarterback currently playing for the Cincinnati Bengals in the NFL. He played college football at the University of Delaware, where he set 20 school records, including passing yards and completions, and led the Blue Hens to the NCAA FCS title game in 2007[2][5]. Flacco was selected by the Baltimore Ravens with the 18th overall pick in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he started all 16 games and became one of the few rookie quarterbacks in NFL history to start a playoff game. Known for his strong arm and calm demeanor, Flacco led the Ravens to the playoffs in each of his first four seasons, a league first. His most notable achievement came in Super Bowl XLVII, where he led Baltimore to a 34-31 victory over the San Francisco 49ers and earned the Super Bowl MVP award for his performance[1][5]. After a long tenure with the Ravens, Flacco was traded to the Denver Broncos and later joined the Cincinnati Bengals. As of the 2025 NFL season, he remains an active player with the Bengals, contributing as a veteran quarterback. He is recognized for his experience and leadership on the field, often stepping in as a reliable option for his team[3][4]. Flacco is 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighs approximately 245 pounds. Throughout his career, he has been valued for his playoff performances and ability to manage games effectively. His ongoing career with the Bengals highlights his continued relevance in the league at age 40[3][4].
About the Organizations Mentioned
Cleveland Browns
The **Cleveland Browns** are a professional American football team based in Cleveland, Ohio, competing in the National Football League (NFL) as a member of the American Football Conference (AFC) North division. Founded in 1944 by businessman Arthur B. "Mickey" McBride and coach Paul Brown, the Browns began play in 1946 in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC), where they dominated by winning all four league championships before the AAFC folded in 1949. The team then joined the NFL and maintained early dominance, reaching the NFL championship game every year from 1950 to 1955 and winning three titles during that period[2][3]. Named after their first coach Paul Brown, who is considered a pioneer of modern football, the Browns built a legacy of success with legendary players such as Jim Brown, widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. The franchise won a total of eight league titles (including AAFC and NFL championships) and 18 division trophies in its early decades, making it one of professional football’s dynasties[1][7]. Ownership shifted several times, notably to Art Modell in 1961, who controversially fired Paul Brown in 1963. The team won its last NFL championship in 1964 but struggled to reach the Super Bowl despite multiple AFC Championship game appearances in the 1980s under quarterback Bernie Kosar[2][3]. The Browns faced a major upheaval when Modell relocated the franchise to Baltimore in 1996, causing the team to be temporarily deactivated until it was reactivated as an expansion franchise in 1999[4]. Since their revival, the Browns have struggled with consistency and performance, often ranking among the NFL’s weaker teams. However, recent seasons have shown improvement, including a playoff win in 2020—their first since 1994. The team plays home games at FirstEnergy Stadium and is currently owned by Jimmy and Dee Hasla
Pittsburgh Steelers
The **Pittsburgh Steelers** are a professional American football team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with a rich history dating back to 1933. Founded by **Arthur J. Rooney, Sr.**, the team has been a cornerstone of the Western Pennsylvania community for nearly a century. The Steelers are a member of the National Football League (NFL), competing in the American Football Conference (AFC) North division. ### History and Achievements - **Championships**: The Steelers have achieved significant success, winning six Super Bowl titles (IX, X, XIII, XIV, XL, and XLIII) and numerous divisional championships. - **Community Engagement**: The organization is deeply involved in community outreach and charitable activities, reflecting its commitment to the local area[7]. - **Legacy**: The Steelers are known for their dedicated fan base, "Steeler Nation," and their iconic black and gold uniforms. ### Current Status - **2025 Season**: The Steelers are in their 93rd NFL season, with **Mike Tomlin** as head coach and **Omar Khan** as general manager. They are aiming to improve on recent performances and make a strong playoff push[1]. - **Coaching Staff**: Notable coaches include **Arthur Smith** as offensive coordinator and **Teryl Austin** as defensive coordinator[5]. - **Roster**: The team has seen significant changes, including the addition of quarterback **Aaron Rodgers**, who is expected to lead the offense[1]. ### Notable Aspects - **Business and Community Impact**: The Steelers have a strong business model, with a focus on community engagement and philanthropy. The team's commitment to family support has seen improvements, such as introducing game-day daycare[6]. - **Leadership**: The Steelers are led by **Art Rooney II**, who continues the family's legacy of community involvement and team management[7]. Despite challenges like the need for locker room renovations and improvements in strength training programs, the Steelers remain a
