Latest trade move for Shedeur Sanders to CFL’s Toronto Argonauts after Cleveland Browns debut

Shedeur Sanders’ NFL debut with the Cleveland Browns was far from ideal.

The rookie quarterback completed just 4 of 16 pass attempts, threw an interception, and was sacked twice during his first action under centre.

His performance came in challenging circumstances, as he was forced into the game as a relief for Dillon Gabriel, who had exited with a concussion. While the debut was difficult, it inevitably sparks questions about what the future holds for Sanders in the NFL.

However, Sanders does have an alternative path. The Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League hold his negotiating rights, meaning that should he decide to play in the CFL, the Argonauts would have the first opportunity to sign him. Over the summer, ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell suggested that a stint in Canada could actually benefit Sanders’ development, providing him with valuable professional playing time that might not be immediately available in the NFL.

At this stage, there is no indication that Sanders is seriously considering a move to Toronto. Nevertheless, in professional sports, some athletes get to chart their own paths, while for others, circumstances play a large role in shaping their careers. Should Sanders struggle to improve at the NFL level, a move to the CFL could offer him a viable route to continue his career as a starting quarterback.

It’s worth noting that some of the struggles in his debut were also partly due to his teammates, as a few passes that were catchable went uncompleted by his receivers. Still, all things considered, it was a tough introduction to professional football at the highest level, and much will be made of Sanders’ next steps in determining the trajectory of his career.