Shedeur Sanders' first post after Browns camp raises eyebrows for one reason
Context:
The Cleveland Browns completed their rookie minicamp, generating enthusiasm among players and fans, especially for notable figures like Shedeur Sanders, Mason Graham, and Dillon Gabriel. A highlight was when Sanders shared a picture on social media with teammates, sparking attention because Gabriel, who took the first rep at camp, was missing. This absence stirred fan curiosity, but it was clarified that Sanders posed with undrafted free agents who were trying out for the team. The photo's context was explained as showcasing those who earned tryout opportunities, not deliberately excluding other rookies. This incident illustrates the dynamics and excitement surrounding the Browns' rookie minicamp and the upcoming quarterback competition over the summer.
Dive Deeper:
The Cleveland Browns' rookie minicamp concluded with excitement, especially focusing on players like Shedeur Sanders, Mason Graham, and Dillon Gabriel, shortly after the 2025 NFL Draft.
Dillon Gabriel, who took the first snap during the camp, was not seen in a photo shared by Sanders, leading to fan speculation about his absence.
Sanders' photo on social media included teammates who were undrafted free agents, clarifying that the picture intended to highlight those trying out for the team, not excluding any particular player.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski emphasized not reading too much into who took the first rep, suggesting a broader focus throughout the camp and upcoming spring activities.
Fans reacted with curiosity to the absence of certain players in the photo, but explanations from other fans suggested Sanders' intention to showcase camaraderie with those he practiced with closely.
The minicamp and Sanders' post reflect the ongoing anticipation for the quarterback competition and the development of new players within the Browns' organization.
Matthew Wadleigh, a freelance writer, covered the event, noting the importance of understanding the context behind social media posts in sports narratives.
The Cleveland Browns wrapped up rookie minicamp on Sunday, and it was full of excitement around the organization. Players such as Mason Graham, Quinshon Judkins, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel were worth watching just weeks after the 2025 NFL Draft.
Of course, the quarterback battle will be one to watch all summer long. On the first day of camp, it was Gabriel who took the first rep, although head coach Kevin Stefanski didn't want to dig too deep into that fact.
"I wouldn't look into really anything," Stefanski said. "I wouldn't look into anything. You'll see the whole weekend, going through the spring, we don't pay close attention to whose in their first."
Yet, the conclusion of camp prompted a wholesome photo from Sanders as he took a picture with some of his Browns teammates on X with a caption that read, "Thankful for every player apart of our Rookie minicamp. Great relationships was made during our time together."
But, there was one thing fans noticed: Gabriel wasn't in the photo.
Thankful for every player apart of our Rookie minicamp. Great relationships was made during our time together. 🧡 pic.twitter.com/sMmx46P5yl
— Shedeur Sanders (@ShedeurSanders) May 12, 2025 "Where Dillon?" one fan asked.
"WHERE GABRIEL AT?" another asked.
"Where is number 5 in this pic?" asked another fan.
But, other fans pointed out an explanation: These are the undrafted free agents that were trying out for Cleveland.
"He took a picture with all the guys that earned a try out opportunity with the Browns," one fan wrote. "That's exactly how it works. Shedeur wants a pic with the guys trying out, guys he stayed after practice with. Clearly, Mason isn't in the photo either," another replied.
Mason Graham and Quinshon Judkins also weren't seen in the photo, and here's a list of the others who were given a tryout for the minicamp.
Tryout players for Browns rookie minicamp. Lots of wide receivers. https://t.co/JMzeuvMGcG pic.twitter.com/4vuIZSB7kH
— Zac Jackson (@AkronJackson) May 9, 2025 So, it seems that Sanders did not purposely leave Gabriel - or the other rookies - out of the photo, although some fans certainly thought that was the case.
MORE NFL NEWS: