Mel Kiper Jr. Blasts Cleveland Media Over Shedeur Sanders Coverage: “They’re Lying”
In a fiery takedown, ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. has called out Cleveland media for what he describes as biased and misleading coverage of Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. The respected analyst didn’t hold back, accusing local reporters of pushing false narratives and treating Sanders unfairly compared to other NFL quarterbacks.
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This isn’t simply a debate over stats or opinion—Kiper framed it as an issue of honesty. According to him, Sanders’ rookie season has been twisted by media narratives, stripped of context, and misrepresented to fit a negative storyline.
The Double Standard Exposed
Kiper’s critique centers on a glaring inconsistency: the way Cleveland media evaluates Shedeur Sanders versus established quarterbacks like Joe Burrow. While Burrow’s interceptions are often excused as growing pains or blamed on miscommunications, Sanders’ similar mistakes are treated as crises and used to label him a bust.
“Interceptions happen,” Kiper said. “Other rookie QBs make the same errors and get excuses. When Shedeur does it, suddenly it’s a disaster. That’s not analysis—it’s defamation.”
Kiper pointed out that Sanders is held to a much higher standard than his peers, with the media quick to criticize but slow to acknowledge his successes. The double standard has fueled frustration among fans who see a rookie performing under extreme conditions, yet rarely receive recognition for it.
Thrown Into the Fire
Sanders’ rookie year has been anything but easy. He entered a Browns franchise riddled with injuries, inconsistent coaching, and a lack of first-team preparation. Unlike most rookies, Sanders did not get any first-team reps in the preseason—a fact that Kiper emphasized repeatedly.
“He walked into chaos,” Kiper said. “No experienced offensive line, inconsistent receiving corps, no rhythm from preseason reps. Yet he stood tall and earned respect immediately.”
Despite the challenging circumstances, Sanders has displayed poise, leadership, and accuracy beyond what is expected from a first-year quarterback. Kiper highlighted that Sanders’ ability to remain calm and make precise throws in brutal Cleveland weather is a testament to his talent and potential.
Breaking Down the Numbers
Sanders’ performance speaks for itself, even if the media refuses to acknowledge it. In his first NFL game, he threw for 206 yards and a touchdown against the Raiders. That success continued in a breakout performance against the Titans, where Sanders threw for 364 yards and four touchdowns.
“These aren’t garbage-time stats,” Kiper said. “This is a rookie leading his team under pressure, reading defenses, adjusting protections, and executing plays with precision. That’s QB1 talent.”
Kiper argued that the Cleveland media has ignored these achievements, nitpicking minor mistakes while spinning positive moments into negatives. Meanwhile, Sanders’ development has been consistent, and his impact on the Browns’ offense has been transformative.
The Media’s Hypocrisy
Kiper singled out Jason Lloyd of The Athletic as an example of the media’s double standard. Sanders received little to no coverage during the preseason, despite not getting first-team reps. Meanwhile, Dylan Gabriel, another quarterback in the Browns system, received extensive praise and attention.
“When Gabriel struggled, the coverage shifted immediately to Sanders,” Kiper noted. “Suddenly, he was the scapegoat. The hypocrisy is unreal. Lloyd and others had months to advocate for fairness, but they stayed silent until results forced their hand.”
Kiper’s criticism isn’t just about football; it’s about narrative control. He asserts that some reporters prioritize shaping stories over reporting facts, and Sanders has become a victim of that approach.
Leadership in the Locker Room
Behind the scenes, Sanders’ teammates recognize his impact. According to Kiper, Sanders has earned respect in the locker room through his work ethic, maturity, and leadership. He stays late after practice, runs extra reps, and collaborates with veterans to improve his game.
“Players see the grind,” Kiper said. “They know who’s putting in the work, and they rally behind Sanders. That’s why he’s the real leader of this team.”
The contrast between Sanders’ quiet preparation and the media’s focus on mistakes underscores the unfairness Kiper is highlighting. Sanders isn’t just surviving—he’s thriving under pressure.
Game-Changing Performances
The Titans game serves as the ultimate proof of Sanders’ talent. With 364 passing yards and four touchdowns, Sanders not only led the Browns to victory but also displayed the kind of leadership and composure that veteran quarterbacks are praised for.
“This is the type of performance that separates rookies who fade from those who change franchises,” Kiper said. “And yet, the media acted as if it never happened.”
Even after such a dominant performance, Cleveland reporters focused on minor issues or credited the defense rather than acknowledging Sanders’ command of the game. For Kiper, this selective coverage is unacceptable.
Transforming the Browns’ Identity
Sanders’ impact extends beyond statistics. Kiper emphasized that the Browns’ identity has shifted since Sanders became the starter. The team now plays with energy, purpose, and rhythm, something that was absent before his arrival.
“Before he took over, the Browns looked lifeless,” Kiper said. “After he stepped in, the locker room changed, the offense gained swagger, and the fans finally had belief again.”
Kiper warned that no amount of biased reporting can erase what is happening on the field. Sanders’ performances are altering the perception of the franchise and its future, despite media attempts to downplay his contributions.
Rookie Growth and the Path Forward
A key point in Kiper’s defense is understanding that rookie quarterbacks aren’t finished products. Mistakes, turnovers, and learning experiences are part of growth. Sanders’ rapid development highlights his adaptability and potential to become an elite quarterback.
“Every interception is a lesson,” Kiper explained. “Every tough game is a chance to improve. Sanders is already learning faster than most rookies. That’s why the media’s narrative doesn’t match reality.”
Kiper predicts that Sanders will continue to evolve and dominate, making next season even more impressive. His trajectory suggests that the criticisms from Cleveland media will eventually be proven wrong.
Why Kiper’s Voice Matters
Mel Kiper Jr.’s intervention carries significant weight because of his decades-long reputation evaluating football talent. When he publicly calls out media bias, it’s not casual commentary—it’s a signal to the entire league and fan base.
“This isn’t small,” Kiper said. “I’ve seen every type of prospect and hype cycle. When I say Sanders deserves respect, that means something.”
By challenging the narrative, Kiper validates Sanders’ rookie campaign and highlights the unfair scrutiny he has faced. For fans, analysts, and other media members, his voice is a reminder to look beyond headlines and see the facts on the field.
Sanders’ Future in Cleveland
Sanders isn’t just surviving; he’s positioning himself as the Browns’ long-term solution at quarterback. His combination of poise, talent, leadership, and resilience makes him a unique prospect for the franchise.
“The kid is the real deal,” Kiper said. “He’s the future of the Browns, and he’s only scratching the surface.”
Sanders’ continued growth and ability to overcome adversity suggest that the Browns have finally found a quarterback capable of transforming the team. As Kiper repeatedly emphasizes, the narrative will eventually catch up to the truth.
Conclusion: The Truth Will Out
In calling out Cleveland media, Mel Kiper Jr. has done more than critique coverage; he has shone a light on bias, hypocrisy, and selective storytelling. Sanders’ rookie season is a story of resilience, talent, and leadership, yet some media outlets have refused to acknowledge his accomplishments.
“Truth always catches up,” Kiper said. “And Sanders’ truth is that he’s the real deal, and the Browns are in good hands.”
As the NFL season progresses, one thing is clear: Shedeur Sanders has arrived. The stats, performances, and locker room respect all point to a quarterback who could redefine Cleveland football. And while the media narrative may lag behind, fans and analysts like Kiper see what’s really happening on the field—a rookie quarterback turning potential into greatness, one game at a time.
