Eli Manning's ex-teammate explains Shedeur Sanders' "glimmer of hope" in Browns QB room

Shedeur Sanders has been linked with the QB1 role for the Cleveland Browns in his rookie season. However, the former Colorado star will have to pip the likes of Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel to get the position.

While Sanders might face an uphill battle to get the starting quarterback role for the Browns, former New York Giants quarterback Tim Hasselbeck, who was teammates with Eli Manning, has offered the rookie some hope heading into the 2025 season.

"Going to a spot that does not have an entrenched starter is a benefit to any quarterback because at least there's opportunity," Hasselbeck said on 'NFL on ESPN' on Tuesday (12:20). "If you go to Buffalo, you're just there to be Josh Allen's backup.

"If you go somewhere else that doesn't have an entrenched starter, you have a chance, that's the glimmer of hope, and to your point, if you're a second-round pick that goes to a place that doesn't have an entrenched starter, then you presumably become the starter at some point."

Sanders has reportedly impressed many in the early stages of the OTAs. He was the second QB that the Browns took in the draft, with the No. 144 pick. Cleveland had taken Gabriel with the No. 94 pick in the third round. However, the rookie has already been filmed throwing a few interceptions in training camp.

If Sanders can continue his upward trajectory in the offseason, there is a possibility that he could lead the Browns' offense in Week 1 next season.

Shedeur Sanders signed his rookie contract with the Cleveland Browns

Cleveland Browns QB Shedeur Sanders - Source: Imagn

Shedeur Sanders reportedly inked a four-year deal worth over $4.6 million with the Browns on May 19. The QB will receive $446,553 as part of his signing bonus.

Although Sanders has earned a rookie deal with Cleveland, he reportedly had a higher NIL valuation during his college career.

According to On3, Sanders made $6.5 million during his four years in college, which included two seasons each at Jackson State and Colorado.