"He's very misunderstood": Colorado teammate defends Shedeur Sanders

Aug 14, 2025 1:47 PM EDT

LaJohntay Wester’s words about his former Colorado teammate, Shedeur Sanders, couldn’t have come at a better time.

Following “Grown’s” impressive NFL preseason debut with the Cleveland Browns where he threw for 138 yards, two touchdowns against the Carolina Panthers, the rookie quarterback now faces an unfortunate setback with an oblique injury. While the extent of the injury is still uncertain, Wester’s support of Sanders is reminder of the character and determination he brings to the game.

“He’s very misunderstood,” Wester said. “I just want everyone to know he’s one of the hardest-working people that I know. Funny guy. Great leader. He’s the type of player that could change an organization, on and off the field. He does a lot of charity stuff in the community and he works hard. He brings everybody together.”

Wester has started to make his own name with the Baltimore Ravens. The former Colorado standout is fighting to make the final 53-man roster and will likely turn heads in the process as one of the fastest Ravens players.

For Cleveland fans, Wester’s words confirm what they’ve begun to see with Sanders. He’s a player who is serious about his craft and committed to lifting those around him.

This injury is an obstacle, but it’s not the end of the story. Sanders has already shown the ability to tune out outside noise, keep his head down, and deliver results. That same drive that helped him transition from Colorado star to NFL-ready quarterback will serve him well during recovery. The learning curve for a rookie quarterback is steep, but Sanders has embraced it with confidence.

To Shedeur, this moment doesn’t define him and is just part of the journey. He has proven he belongs in the NFL, and his debut made that clear to the world. The work Sanders has put in, the leadership he has shown, and support earned from former teammates like Wester speak louder than any injury report.

The Browns have a quarterback room full of talent, but Sanders already made his mark. And when he’s back on the field, he’ll continue to prove what Wester already knows. Shedeur can change an organization by pushing forward. History in Cleveland is just getting started.