Shedeur Sanders is battling for a starting job with the Cleveland Browns, but he still has unfinished business off the field.
The Cleveland Browns signal-caller has not yet obtained his degree from the University of Colorado, despite widespread reports and social media posts suggesting he had.
Colorado’s official social media accounts featured Sanders at the school’s May 2 graduation ceremony in Boulder, declaring he was “securing his degree.” Sanders added to the impression himself, posting a photo in cap and gown from his father’s office and another from the ceremony.
Colorado Athletics told USA Today that Sanders participated in the commencement ceremony before completing his degree. The school said it’s an option available to students who qualify but still have coursework remaining.
“We are so thrilled that Shedeur Sanders came back to Boulder to celebrate commencement with his fellow students,” Colorado said in a statement. “Shedeur completed the requisite number of credits to participate in the spring commencement ceremony on May 2, which is an opportunity available to all CU students who similarly qualify. Shedeur’s dedication to working toward his degree while playing in the NFL only reinforces our pride in him and is why he will always be a ‘Forever Buff’ to every CU student, alumnus, and fan.”
Colorado Athletics spokesman Steve Hurlbert called the arrangement common.
“This is extremely common, not just for student-athletes but for many students who want to be a part of the spring commencement ceremony but who might be finishing their courseload in the summer or even following fall,” he said.
It is not clear when Sanders plans to officially graduate.
Shedeur Sanders Left a Legacy at Colorado
Sanders spent two seasons at Colorado after transferring from Jackson State. He played for his father, Deion Sanders, at both stops.
During his time at Colorado, he passed for 7,364 yards with 64 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, establishing himself as one of the most productive quarterbacks in program history.
Shortly after he left, Colorado retired his jersey No. 2, which came with some pushback.
“The vitriol from former players regarding CU retiring #2 is loud. I think most (including myself) believe he deserves the honor… eventually… Bypassing the line, bypassing #2 Deon Figures doesn’t make sense,” former Colorado offensive lineman Tyler Polumbus said. “So many all time greats that deserve the honor and have waited their turn. Why so fast? Zero waiting period? Feels like the first blunder of the Coach Prime era that has upset alumni.”
Sanders Competing for Starting Job With Browns
Sanders was selected by Cleveland in the fifth round last year and went on to start seven games as a rookie. He posted a 3-4 record with 1,400 passing yards, 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Sanders was named to the Pro Bowl as a replacement.
He enters his second season in a competition with veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson for the starting job. Browns head coach Todd Monken has indicated no decision has been made, despite reports that Watson has the inside track on the QB1 job.
“I would love to have that,” Monken said earlier this month. “I’m not there yet, so I can’t say that. We’ve been on the field three practices, which was awesome to get out there with our players.”
Watson is currently has a 63% chance to win the starting job, per Kalshi.
Colorado Sets Record Straight on Browns QB Shedeur Sanders