Shedeur Sanders Reacts Gracefully to Travis Hunter's $46M Deal – NFL Wires

Shedeur Sanders Reacts Gracefully to Travis Hunter's $46M Deal – NFL Wires

Shedeur Sanders responds with humble support as former teammate Travis Hunter signs a record-setting $46.65M rookie deal—while Sanders’ own contract is nearly ten times smaller, at under $5M. Read the full story on NFL Wires.

Introduction

When Travis Hunter signed a record-setting four-year, $46.65 million rookie contract with $30.57 million paid upfront, it made waves across the NFL . Fans quickly noticed the stark contrast—Shedeur Sanders, drafted in the fifth round by the Browns, signed a much smaller four-year deal worth around $4.6 million, with minimal guaranteed money.

Shedeur’s Response

Instead of resentment, Sanders showed class and support. As reported by SI, he reposted the Jaguars' announcement with a 🤞 “fingers crossed” emoji, signaling heartfelt congrats and best wishes. He later shared the same emoji on Browns Nation, neither hiding nor complaining about the discrepancy 

This gesture embodied humility: Sanders didn’t mention pay or attention—just respect for his former Colorado teammate.

The Contract Divide

• Hunter: First non-QB taken outside the No. 1 spot to receive his entire bonus upfront—starting with a base salary of $840k rising to $7.2M by year fourSanders: Took a typical fifth-round QB contract—about $4.6M over four years, no full guarantees, and substantially less initial cap space 

• 
  

That works out to Sanders earning approximately $42 million less over the same timeframe.

Why This Matters

1. Emotional Maturity: Sanders’ response highlights his emotional intelligence—embracing someone else’s success rather than sulking.

2. Locker Room Poise: With the Browns stacked at QB, his confidence and humility may gain him credibility in a crowded room.

3. Fuel for Growth: Acknowledging inequity while staying focused suggests he can channel this moment into motivation.

NFL Wires Takeaway

• Professionalism Wins: Rather than looking envious, Sanders showed class—signaling maturity beyond his rookie status.

• Contract Reality: Draft status still defines initial earning potential—but performance can flip the script fast in Cleveland.

• What Comes Next: As training camp progresses, all eyes will be on who earns more responsibility—and eventually, who earns more pay.

Final Word

Shedeur Sanders may be earning a ninth of what Travis Hunter is this season—but in response to that disparity, Sanders showed character and composure. That kind of mindset is exactly what can help him turn opportunity into legacy.

Lamar Jackson Biography: Career, Stats, Net Worth & Life Story