Although it’s early May, the Cleveland Browns are not wasting any time in preparing for the new season. Considering they drafted two QBs and five other rookies, undoubtedly, there’s a lot of buzz surrounding their camp. So, when they opened their rookie minicamp, all eyes were on Kevin Stefanski and how he handles all the talent. Whether it’s the first rounders, second rounders, or all the way to the fifth round, Stefanski had a message for everyone. Let’s just say no one’s name or draft position will dictate their role in the team.

Day 1 of the Browns’ rookie minicamp was anticipated to be a straight tussle between Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. As for Stefanski, he chose to give his third-round pick the first reps in practice. And after half a dozen snaps, he finally called upon Sanders. Honestly, both were able to impress with their passing capabilities. However, only showing flashes of brilliance on the field wouldn’t win you a starting berth in Cleveland.

Stefanski has made it clear that no matter how well you perform, you will be judged on multiple corners. In his first speech at the minicamp, Stefanski had a simple message before the Browns go deeper into the season. “No one will be given a role. It doesn’t work that way. You will earn a role, and you’ll earn that role based off what you do in this room. In your position. Meeting room. In the weight room, out on the field, in this building, that’s what you’re doing. Earn that role,” Stefanski expressed.

Well, the biggest story surrounding the Browns’ approach to rookies is their choice of QBs. After passing on the opportunity to select Sanders multiple times, they finally picked him with their 144th pick. However, this decision was a massive surprise considering the Browns already had 3 QBs on their roster. So, when Stefanski was asked after their first day of rookie minicamp about who could be the No.1 quarterback once the 2025 season comes along, he didn’t give a clear answer. Instead, Stefanski left us hanging, saying, “There’s a lot of time between now and September. So we’ll have a plan. But it’s an all-encompassing evaluation.”

He also added how both Gabriel and Sanders have a lot to improve upon before getting the QB1 status. “I thought both guys did a really nice job, and there’s so much to work on. It’s the minutiae of the position. It’s some technique things. The operations needs to get better.” While Sanders and Gabriel try to nail down a starting spot on the team, the Browns handed Shedeur a change of scenario.

Shedeur Sanders to map a new legacy in Browns colors

“I’m not wearing another number, bro. It’s two and that’s it.” Back in December, Shedeur Sanders was hell bent on keeping his No.2 jersey as he prepared to leave college life for NFL stardom. However, Sanders, who had worn No.2 throughout his high school and college days, found his number occupied in Cleveland. It already belonged to the Browns’ return specialist, DeAndre Carter. Sanders could have easily requested his No.2 jersey. But thankfully, he didn’t. No.2 hasn’t been a lucky jersey for the previous Browns QBs. Johnny Manziel and Tim Couch both wore it.

However, none were able to achieve success later on. So, Sanders eventually settled for a number that could be a subtle tribute to his dad. Deion used to wear No.21 in his Hall of Fame career. Flipping No.21 gives you No.12, as Shedeur chose to go ahead with it. Well, Deion ain’t the only Hall of Famer who wore No.12 in their career. The likes of Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, and Terry Bradshaw all carried a rich legacy for No.12. So, wearing No.12 isn’t just a nod to his dad. Instead, Shedeur Sanders will carry a tremendous weight on his shoulders to write a new legacy wearing No.12.

To be honest, if Shedeur can do well in Cleveland. No.12 could be the next number to get retired after the Buffaloes chose to retire his No.2 jersey last season.