Skip Bayless Criticizes ‘Outrageously Wrong’ Shedeur Sanders Situation

Skip Bayless believes Shedeur Sanders has been placed in an unfair situation with the Cleveland Browns, and the outspoken sports commentator did not hold back in his latest criticism of the organization. Bayless described the quarterback’s circumstances as outrageously wrong after another development complicated his path to meaningful playing time.

Sanders entered the 2026 season facing a difficult battle for the starting job before the Browns ultimately chose Deshaun Watson to lead the offense. The decision left Sanders in a reserve role despite a competitive offseason in which he continued to show development and gained valuable experience following his rookie campaign.

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Dec 7, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) throws a pass against the Tennessee Titans during the second quarter at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

The situation became even more frustrating for Bayless after Cleveland decided Sanders would split scout-team repetitions with rookie Taylen Green. Dillon Gabriel’s placement on injured reserve following a back injury created another shift in the quarterback room, but it did not result in Sanders receiving all of the additional developmental opportunities available behind Watson.

Bayless argued that Sanders’ talent and potential were being wasted in a role that offered limited opportunities to demonstrate his growth. He also questioned whether comments praising other quarterbacks within the organization could be interpreted as an indirect criticism of Sanders, adding another layer to the scrutiny surrounding Cleveland’s handling of its young passers.

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Dec 7, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) warms up with a medicine ball before the game against the Tennessee Titans at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

Bayless hit Cleveland for how it’s handling the situation with Sanders. This can be seen in a video he shared on his official X account.

The Browns, however, have maintained that their quarterback decisions were based on their overall evaluations throughout the offseason, training camp and preseason. The organization has expressed confidence in Sanders’ future, even while determining that Watson gave the team its best chance to begin the season as the starter.

For Sanders, the criticism surrounding his situation only increases the attention on every decision Cleveland makes at quarterback. Bayless may see the circumstances as a troubling misuse of a talented young player, but the coming season will determine whether Sanders eventually receives the opportunity to turn his potential into a larger role and reshape the debate surrounding his future.