In a twist of fate that really highlights how unpredictable modern athletics can be, Shedeur Sanders—son of NFL legend Deion Sanders—has landed in a tough spot with the Cleveland Browns. After turning down the Baltimore Ravens in the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders ended up with the Browns, but he’s been stuck on the sidelines while Dillon Gabriel grabbed the starting quarterback job.
It’s the kind of situation that might’ve played out very differently if the Student Athlete Fairness and Enforcement (SAFE) Act had passed sooner. That bill could’ve given athletes a lot more flexibility and control over their careers.
Shedeur Sanders: A Career in Limbo
Shedeur Sanders’ NFL journey hasn’t been smooth at all. Drafted by the Browns, he came in hoping for a real shot at starting quarterback.
But even as the team struggled under Joe Flacco, Sanders watched as the coaches chose Dillon Gabriel over him. It’s gotta sting, especially with the Browns boasting the NFL’s No. 1 defense—one that’s working overtime while the offense sputters.
The Decision to Spurn the Ravens
Sanders could’ve joined the Baltimore Ravens, where he would have competed with Cooper Rush for the backup spot behind Lamar Jackson. Now, with Jackson out due to a hamstring injury, Sanders might’ve actually been leading an NFL team right now.
Instead, he’s benched in Cleveland, left wondering how things could’ve gone if he’d made a different call.
The SAFE Act: A Glimmer of Hope?
The Student Athlete Fairness and Enforcement (SAFE) Act, introduced by Democratic senators, is supposed to give athletes more say over their careers. One eye-catching idea in the bill is letting drafted athletes return to college, as long as they don’t take money from the pro league and declare their intentions within a week after the draft.
Potential Impact on Athletes
If the SAFE Act had already been law, Sanders might’ve just gone back to college instead of getting stuck in his current situation. The bill could give future athletes a way out, letting them make smarter choices without being forced into a pro commitment right away.
But the bill’s future is shaky, since the Republicans hold the majority in the House. Who knows if it’ll ever actually make it through?
NIL Legislation: A Double-Edged Sword
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) legislation has already shaken up college sports, letting athletes cash in on their personal brand. Sure, it’s opened up financial opportunities, but it’s also piled on new pressures—like having to make big career decisions quickly.
The SAFE Act tries to tackle some of those headaches by giving athletes more flexibility. Is it enough? Hard to say.
Challenges and Opportunities
For players like Sanders, both NIL and the SAFE Act are a mixed bag. There’s the promise of money and more career options, but also a maze of new decisions and risks to navigate.
Finding that sweet spot—where athletes can chase their dreams and still protect their long-term future—won’t be easy.
The Future of College and Professional Football
The landscape of college and pro football is changing fast. With laws like the SAFE Act and NIL rules in play, everyone—athletes, coaches, teams—is having to adjust on the fly.
The choices athletes make now could shape not just their own futures, but the whole sport. It’s a lot to weigh, and honestly, who can say what the next chapter holds?
What Could Have Been for Shedeur Sanders
If the SAFE Act had come around just a year earlier, Shedeur Sanders might’ve had a different story. He could’ve stayed in college, dodging the situation he’s facing now with the Browns.
Instead, he’s stuck watching from the sidelines, probably wondering how things could’ve played out. Meanwhile, his team keeps struggling on the field.
Curious to dig deeper into Shedeur Sanders’ situation and how the SAFE Act fits in? Check out the full article on Sporting News.
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