Browns, rookie Shedeur Sanders finalize 4-year contract after draft slide

Colin Cowherd breaks down what realistic expectations should be for Shedeur Sanders as he steps into the spotlight in Cleveland. Can the Browns finally have their franchise quarterback, or is the pressure too much too soon for the young star?

Shedeur Sanders was projected to go as early as No. 2 before his inexplicable draft slide. The Cleveland Browns finally selected Sanders in the fifth round of last month's NFL Draft.

On Monday, the Browns said Sanders signed his rookie contract. ESPN reported that Sanders' four-year rookie deal is valued at $4.6 million. 

The latest NFL collective bargaining agreement introduced fixed rookie pay scales, which effectively eliminates negotiations. Since Sanders was the 144th overall pick, he was slotted to earn $4.6 million on his first contract.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) throws during the NFL football team's rookie minicamp in Berea, Ohio, Friday, May 9, 2025.  (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

The Browns also confirmed Sanders will wear the No. 12 during the 2025 season. Sanders wore No. 2 at Colorado, but Cleveland wide receiver DeAndre Carter had already claimed the No. 2 jersey.

BROWNS' SHEDEUR SANDERS SAYS HE WON'T BUY COLLEGE JERSEY NUMBER FROM TEAMMATE, CITES MODEST SIGNING BONUS

There was some speculation Sanders could make an offer to Carter to regain his college football number. But Sanders hinted that his modest signing bonus would prevent him from pursuing his old number.

"My signing bonus ain’t that high right now," Sanders said.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) throws during NFL rookie minicamp at the Cleveland Browns training facility on Friday, May 9, 2025, in Berea, Ohio. (IMAGN)

Spo