Cleveland Browns Quarterback Shedeur Sanders Breaks Record with Licensing Income

Shedeur Sanders didn’t achieve a first-round draft pick in April 2025, but the Cleveland Browns quarterback found significant financial success elsewhere. Through NFL Players’ Association endorsement agreements, Sanders earned $17.7 million in group licensing income for the 2025 season, according to Front Office Sports. This income, derived from fans purchasing jerseys, trading cards, and other collectibles, set a new record.

“That money comes from all jersey sales, trading cards and other collectibles purchases by fans, and it’s a record-breaker.”

In contrast, legendary quarterback Tom Brady made $9.5 million in group licensing income during the 2021-22 season. Sanders signed a four-year, $4.647 million rookie contract with the Browns, averaging just over $1 million per season. Despite his dramatic fall during the NFL Draft, as he was only picked on Day 3, his fanbase proved substantial. Jalen Milroe and Dillon Gabriel were drafted ahead of Sanders, with Gabriel, another Heisman Trophy finalist, being selected by Cleveland in the third round.

Sanders also benefitted from additional endorsement deals upon entering professional football, potentially bringing his rookie season earnings over $20 million.

Before becoming the Browns’ starter, veteran Joe Flacco was the starting quarterback under coach Kevin Stefanski at the start of the 2025 season. Sanders made his first start against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 12, leading Cleveland to a 24-10 victory. His performance included 11 completions on 20 attempts, totaling 209 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Though Cleveland missed the playoffs, Stefanski named Sanders the starter for the rest of the season to help with development.

Sanders completed the season with 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and ten interceptions, achieving a record of three wins and four losses over seven starts. Despite the excitement surrounding Sanders, he must compete for the starting position entering 2026. With Deshaun Watson’s return to health, both quarterbacks are sharing first-team reps during voluntary practices under newly appointed head coach Todd Monken from the Baltimore Ravens.

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