Ex-ESPN Host Faces Backlash Over Shedeur Sanders Claims Amid Browns Rookie’s Stellar NFL Debut
Ex-ESPN Host Slammed for Shedeur Sanders Conspiracy Theory After Browns Rookie Shines in NFL Debut
By Jake Fenner, US Sports Writer | Updated: 00:44 BST, 10 August 2025
Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders silenced doubters with a stellar preseason debut against the Carolina Panthers on Friday, but the spotlight quickly turned to ESPN analyst Robert Griffin III after fans called out his dramatic flip-flop on the rookie’s prospects.
Griffin, a former Heisman Trophy winner, sparked controversy earlier in the week by claiming the Browns were “setting up [Sanders] to fail” by limiting his practice reps with the first-team offense. He doubled down on social media, writing, “But God’s got him showing out even with limited reps” ahead of the game.
However, Sanders, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, delivered a commanding performance in Cleveland’s 30-10 victory. The rookie threw for 138 yards and two touchdowns, earning praise from coach Kevin Stefanski and even drawing applause from LeBron James and Richard Sherman.
Shedeur Sanders threw two touchdowns in his NFL preseason debut with the Browns.
Griffin’s post-game reaction shifted dramatically. He tweeted, “Many thought Shedeur Sanders would fail after being thrown to the wolves… BUT GOD saw fit that Shedeur would lead the pack. Faith and hard work always pay off.”
Fans quickly roasted Griffin for his abrupt U-turn. “You said he was being set up to fail… so you were wrong,” one user replied. Former ESPN host Trey Wingo added, “No Olympic swimmer has backstroked faster,” while another critic jabbed, “You’re a more embarrassing analyst than you were an NFL QB.”
Robert Griffin III faced intense criticism for his sudden praise after initially doubting Sanders.
Sanders’ performance overshadowed the drama, showcasing his poise and precision. His father, Deion Sanders, also celebrated the milestone, sharing highlights with the caption, “That’s my QB!”
The Browns’ decision to start Sanders in the preseason opener paid off, as he connected with David Bell and Jordan Ellis for touchdowns. His next test comes August 16 against the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.
Social media erupted with reactions to Sanders’ success and Griffin’s reversed take.
While Griffin has yet to address the backlash, the incident highlights the volatility of sports hot takes—and the peril of underestimating a Sanders. As one fan succinctly put it: “Rookie outplayed the criticism. Griffin’s credibility? Not so much.”
Up Next: Shedeur Sanders and the Browns face the Philadelphia Eagles on August 16 in their second preseason matchup.
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Images embedded with captions highlighting key moments.
