Shedeur Sanders may have just joined the Cleveland Browns, but he’s already making his mark on the city. The newly drafted quarterback visited John Marshall High School in Cleveland on Wednesday.
Only a few days into his time with the Browns, Sanders walked into the school’s cafeteria to a group of shocked students. He took the time to answer their questions, offer advice, and share his vision for the future, both on and off the field.
For over 15 minutes, Sanders spoke to the students about the importance of staying focused, making good decisions, and listening to their parents and mentors.
“I’m trying to bring Cleveland a Super Bowl!” Sanders told the students. “But off the field, I want to bring more hope and positivity to the city, and connecting with young people is one of the best ways to do that.”
Sanders, who arrived in Cleveland just the day before, wasted no time diving into the community. “I have a lot of people watching me, and I know I’m a positive influence for the youth,” he shared. “That motivates me every day.”
During the Q&A, Sanders offered some practical advice, sharing a piece of wisdom that has shaped his own journey.
“You got two ways you could go about it: You could do what you want to do, not listen, and see how it pans out; or you could listen to somebody that’s got your best interests at heart, that wants the best for you, and go down that route,” Sanders explained. “Everybody has free will in this room, and everything may be fun and games now, but when real life hits, I don’t think it’s going to be that funny if you don’t set yourself up the right way.”
Sanders also addressed his surprising fall during the NFL draft. Originally expected to be a first-round pick, he fell to the fifth round, with many wondering why teams passed on him. Despite the drop in his draft position, Sanders remains confident in himself and his ability to prove doubters wrong.
He also praised his father, Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, for his guidance.
“My dad’s who he is, and I’m going to be who I am regardless. I’m always going to be his son,” Sanders said. “People say, ‘Oh, you did this because of your dad.’ I’m thankful my dad took the opportunity to do what he was supposed to do.”
In addition to the Q&A session, Sanders held a closed training session on the school’s football field. While his visit was unexpected, it was clear that Sanders is eager to connect with the next generation of athletes.
We’re excited to see what Shedeur Sanders does in Cleveland!
