Shedeur Sanders, now a quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, did not secure a first-round draft pick spot in April 2025, but he found significant financial success elsewhere. Through the NFL Players’ Association’s endorsement deals, Sanders earned a remarkable $17.7 million in group licensing income for the 2025 season, as reported by Front Office Sports.
This income stems from fan purchases of jerseys, trading cards, and other memorabilia. Sanders shattered the previous record, surpassing notable quarterback Tom Brady, who earned $9.5 million during the 2021-22 season.
Sanders inked a four-year, $4.647 million rookie contract with the Browns, averaging just over $1 million per season. Despite a dramatic fall in the NFL Draft, with Sanders waiting until Day 3 for the Browns to call his name, his popularity among fans resulted in high merchandise sales.
The Browns also selected Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel, another Heisman Trophy finalist, ahead of Sanders in the third round. Nevertheless, Sanders’ fanbase ensured his merchandise sales flourished, contributing to his earnings.
In addition to his group licensing income, Sanders likely secured other endorsements, pushing his rookie season earnings close to or above $20 million. He entered the NFL amid significant anticipation to see if he could excel at the highest level.
Initially, Sanders observed from the sidelines as veteran Joe Flacco took the starting position under then-head coach Kevin Stefanski at the onset of the 2025 season. However, Sanders soon got his opportunity.
In Week 12, Sanders made his starting debut against the Las Vegas Raiders, leading the Browns to a 24-10 win. He completed 11 of 20 passes for 209 yards, including one touchdown and one interception.
Stefanski then designated Sanders as the starter for the season’s remainder, intending to foster his development since the Browns were no longer in playoff contention. Sanders completed the season with 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and ten interceptions, holding a 3-4 record over seven starts.
Entering 2026, Sanders must compete for the starting role. Deshaun Watson, returning to full health, shares first-team practice reps with Sanders under new head coach Todd Monken, who arrived from the Baltimore Ravens.
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