Fans Fear Deshaun Watson Mentoring Shedeur Sanders Might Be a Bad Influence | NFL Wires
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Cleveland Browns QB Deshaun Watson has taken rookie Shedeur Sanders under his wing, but some fans worry the mentorship could backfire. Here’s a balanced look at what it means for Sanders’s future.
Introduction: Mentor or Misstep?
Deshaun Watson, sidelined with a serious Achilles injury for most of 2024 and likely 2025, has embraced a mentorship role in Cleveland’s quarterback room—especially with rookie Shedeur Sanders. But while some praise Watson’s support, others fear his presence might harm Sanders’s development. We explore both perspectives in this evolving NFL narrative.
Watson Steps into a Support Role
Despite missing another season due to injury, Watson has remained active at team facilities and meetings. According to Cleveland.com's Mary Kay Cabot, Watson has been “an awesome teammate” and “cheerleader” for quarterbacks including Sanders and Dillon Gabriel. Sanders reportedly benefited as Watson “took him under his wing”
Why Supporters Approve
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NFL Guidance: Watson brings years of experience, offering valuable insights on reading defenses, timing, and pro-level preparation.
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Gratitude Factor: Having supported Watson during his Achilles setback, Deion Sanders’s son may see this as reciprocal wisdom and responsibility.
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Confidence Boost: Prominent voices in the QB room help young players feel valued and accelerate their transition to the league scale.
Why Fans Fear a Negative Influence
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On-field Decline: Watson’s performance post-trade and before his injury was underwhelming—his $230 M Browns contract failed to deliver returns, raising concerns about passing legacy of losing habits.
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Off-field Controversies: Watson’s past—suspensions, lawsuits—continue to stir debate. Some fans worry those controversies could overshadow or negatively shape a young QB’s image.
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Diluted Mentorship: Browns insider site BVM Sports cautions that pairing Sanders and Gabriel closely with Watson “could hinder their careers,” suggesting a more stable mentor like Joe Flacco might be preferred.
Locker Room Reactions & Reddit Buzz
Reddit users expressed skepticism:
“Nepotism, reckless driving, HJs, playing for the Browns – absolutely nothing positive.”“If I’m Shadeur I’d want nothing to do with Watson.”
These reactions highlight fan concern that Watson’s troubled track record may not be the ideal model for a rookie.
NFL Wires’ Take
Watson’s mentorship offers clear benefits—experience, preparation, confidence—but it comes with baggage. The key: Sanders must pick and choose what to absorb. Combine Watson’s technical guidance with the stable leadership of veterans like Joe Flacco, and he can find balance. But unchecked influence risks confusion for a developing QB.
Conclusion: Mentorship with a Safety Net
The mentorship from Watson presents both opportunity and risk for Shedeur Sanders. He benefits from elite-level advice—but needs to remain anchored by positive influence and strong coaching. Fans’ fears aren’t unfounded, but with the right approach, Sanders can use this guidance without inheriting negatives.
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