Updated: November 9, 2025
Shedeur Sanders, the talented quarterback drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, has defied conventional expectations by becoming the top-selling jersey player from his draft class. Despite his draft position at No. 144, Sanders has captured the hearts of football fans across the country, outselling even Cam Ward and Travis Hunter, the first and second overall picks, respectively. This unexpected surge in Sanders' popularity hints at a promising future in professional football.
Jersey Sales Triumph
The announcement from Fanatics indicating Shedeur Sanders' lead in jersey sales illuminates the unique blend of charisma and talent that Sanders brings to the field. His openness to engaging with fans and building a strong social media presence have undoubtedly contributed to his jersey's immense popularity. This rare feat of outselling top draft picks showcases Sanders' ability to garner attention and support beyond the traditional metrics of draft position.
A Defining Choice: No. 2 or No. 5?
One intriguing aspect of Shedeur Sanders' journey to the NFL is the question of which jersey number he will don for the Cleveland Browns. While Sanders sported No. 2 during his college days at Colorado, recent teasers from the Browns organization have depicted him wearing No. 5. This decision, though seemingly mundane, carries symbolism and tradition in the world of football, symbolizing a new chapter in Sanders' already storied career.
Despite the speculation around his jersey number, Sanders' focus remains firmly on his performance on the field. The quarterback's rookie contract projections, significantly lower than those of higher picks like Ward and Hunter, place additional pressure on Sanders to develop quickly and make a significant impact in his early NFL seasons.
Off-Field Success: NIL Valuation and Partnerships
Off the field, Shedeur Sanders has already carved a reputation for himself, amassing a substantial $6.5 million On3 NIL valuation during his college stint—trailing only behind the likes of Texas quarterback Arch Manning. Sanders' success in securing partnerships with iconic brands such as Nike and Beats by Dre underscores his marketability and star potential both on and off the gridiron.
Competition for the Starting Spot
As Sanders gears up for his rookie season with the Cleveland Browns, a heated competition for the starting quarterback position looms large. With Deshaun Watson facing an extended period on the sidelines due to injury, the path seems clearer for Sanders to stake his claim for the starting role. However, contenders like Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, 2025 third-rounder Dillon Gabriel, and Sanders himself will undoubtedly intensify the competition during the upcoming spring and summer training sessions.
