Shedeur Sanders Is Exposing the Browns Media’s Biggest Problem: Bias and Misinformation

Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders hasn’t just sparked headlines on the field — he’s exposing what many now believe to be a deeper issue within the Cleveland Browns media landscape: inconsistent reporting, unfair narratives, and a troubling lack of accountability in covering the team’s young talent.

From the moment Sanders was drafted in the fifth round — a slide that shocked analysts and fans alike — local and national media began crafting a storyline that didn’t quite match reality. Rather than focusing on his skillset, leadership, and marketability, much of the Cleveland media emphasized his weaknesses, questioned his maturity, and speculated about locker room friction — all without verifiable sources.

As preseason unfolded, things only got worse.

In the Browns’ final exhibition game, Sanders was benched during the last two minutes of a close contest, replaced by veteran Tyler Huntley, who led a game-winning drive. While national analysts called the decision “suspect,” Cleveland-based outlets largely defended the coaching staff’s move without pushing for accountability or clarification. Few asked the tough questions: Why was a rookie not allowed to finish a developmental game? What message does this send about his role?

On social media, Sanders’ loyal fanbase began firing back. Many accused the local press of protecting the front office narrative and undermining Sanders to maintain access and favor with the team. “They’ll praise Joe Flacco for a routine completion and rip Shedeur for getting sacked behind a backup O-line,” one viral post read. Others pointed out how coverage of other rookies — particularly white quarterbacks — has been far more forgiving, even when performance is equal or worse.

Shedeur’s response? He’s remained poised — and precise.

In a recent post-practice interview, Sanders subtly called out the media bias:

“I don’t worry about outside narratives. The people talking aren’t in the building. I focus on the film, the reps, and the relationships.”

That short statement resonated widely. Fans and national media figures praised Sanders for his maturity, while also highlighting how the Cleveland press has often been more focused on protecting reputations than asking hard football questions.

Even Hall of Fame tight end Shannon Sharpe chimed in, saying on his podcast:

“This kid is under a microscope in Cleveland. And instead of uplifting a young Black quarterback with obvious talent, parts of that media market seem more interested in picking him apart. That’s not journalism — that’s agenda.”

Now, as Sanders sits behind veterans on the depth chart and speculation continues about his future with the franchise, the media narrative surrounding him remains mixed. But one thing is clear: by simply showing up, staying calm, and letting his game do the talking, Shedeur Sanders is exposing a long-standing problem in Cleveland’s media culture — and it’s forcing fans and reporters alike to rethink who’s really telling the full story.

Whether he plays Week 1 or not, Sanders may already be reshaping the conversation in Cleveland — both on and off the field.