Shedeur Sanders didn’t hold back after his NFL preseason debut, confronting Cleveland sports journalist Tony Grossi in a viral moment that’s got everyone talking. The Cleveland Browns’ rookie quarterback, fresh off a stellar performance against the Carolina Panthers on August 8, 2025, called out Grossi for what he sees as a pattern of negative coverage. The exchange, captured on video by Deion Sanders Jr.’s “Well Off Media,” showed Sanders approaching Grossi in the tunnel, saying,
“Tony, I be hoping you have something positive to say about me. You always say negative stuff about me. I ain’t do nothing to you.”
The lighthearted yet pointed confrontation came after Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns, earning a 106.8 passer rating in the Browns’ 30-10 win. With a playful pat on Grossi’s shoulder, Sanders added,
“I ain’t seen nothing positive that you’ve ever said to me,”
before laughing and walking away. The moment, shared widely on social media, highlighted Sanders’ confidence and his frustration with Grossi’s reporting.
The tension traces back to Sanders’ unexpected slide to the fifth round (No. 144 overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite a standout college career at Jackson State and Colorado, where he threw for 14,327 yards and 134 touchdowns, some questioned his NFL readiness. Grossi, a veteran Browns analyst known for his sharp critiques, had been vocal about Sanders’ struggles during offseason activities, including concerns about arm soreness that sidelined him for a practice. Grossi’s comments, like calling Sanders a “developmental quarterback,” fueled perceptions of bias, especially among fans who felt he overlooked Sanders’ potential.
Sanders’ debut performance was a direct rebuttal to his critics. His poise and playmaking ability earned praise from Browns coach Kevin Stefanski, who noted the value of his reps. Even Grossi, on ESPN Cleveland, called Sanders’ performance “outstanding” post-game, a rare positive note that may have been spurred by their tunnel exchange. The confrontation also drew attention from high-profile figures like LeBron James, who celebrated Sanders’ debut online, posting a message of support on X (formerly Twitter).
This isn’t the first time Sanders has addressed perceived slights. In 2024, he made headlines for refusing to shake hands with Colorado State’s quarterback after a game, citing disrespect. His bold approach with Grossi reflects a desire to control his narrative, especially as he competes in a crowded Browns quarterback room alongside Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and rookie Dillon Gabriel.
