The spotlight was intense when Shedeur Sanders stepped onto the field for his first NFL preseason appearance. The Cleveland Browns’ rookie quarterback was facing the Carolina Panthers’ starters, and the football world was watching closely. Among the voices weighing in before kickoff was Robert Griffin III, who expressed concern that Sanders might be “set up to fail” given his limited preparation time with the first-team offense.
How Did Shedeur Sanders Silence His Early Critics?
Sanders flipped that narrative in dramatic fashion. After Griffin’s pre-game skepticism, the rookie delivered an impressive first-half performance that had everyone taking notice, including Griffin himself. However, the former NFL quarterback’s quick change of tune didn’t go unnoticed by former linebacker and “Bussin’ With The Boys” podcast host Will Compton, who delivered a sharp critique of the flip-flop.
Before Sanders’ debut, Griffin’s tweet carried a cautionary tone. He suggested that the Browns’ decision to start the rookie against Carolina’s first-string defense was risky, noting Sanders’ lack of preparation time with the starting unit. The implication was clear – this situation could hinder the young quarterback’s early NFL development.
But Sanders had other plans. After a sluggish opening drive, he found his rhythm quickly. The rookie completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns, showing the poise and decision-making that made him a top draft prospect. His crisp scoring pass to Davis and his ability to bounce back from early pressure impressed fans and critics alike.
Many thought Shedeur Sanders would fail after being thrown to the wolves as the starter with minimal first team reps against the Carolina Panthers starters. BUT GOD saw fit that Shedeur Sanders would come back leading the pack. Faith and hard work always pay off. Perfect Timing.
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) August 9, 2025
That’s when Griffin’s tone shifted dramatically. Griffin’s follow-up tweet struck a completely different chord, praising Sanders’ resilience and crediting his faith and work ethic: “Many thought Shedeur Sanders would fail after being thrown to the wolves… BUT GOD saw fit that Shedeur Sanders would come back leading the pack. Faith and hard work always pay off. Perfect timing.”
Why Did Will Compton Call Out Robert Griffin III?
Compton wasn’t about to let the sudden narrative change slide without comment. The former linebacker, known for his direct approach on his popular podcast, saw an opportunity to highlight what he viewed as Griffin’s inconsistency.
Quoting Griffin’s celebratory message, Compton simply wrote: “Many thought he was being set up to fail, too.”
Many thought he was being set up to fail, too. https://t.co/Jcaxb0fCUt pic.twitter.com/4pPWEGvYv9
— Will Compton (@_willcompton) August 9, 2025
The pointed remark directly referenced Griffin’s original wording, suggesting the former quarterback had conveniently backtracked after Sanders’ strong showing. The exchange immediately caught fire among NFL fans online, sparking debates about whether Griffin was genuinely celebrating Sanders’ success or simply pivoting to avoid admitting his initial skepticism was wrong.
What Does Sanders’ Debut Performance Mean for His Future?
While the social media drama drew plenty of attention, Sanders’ debut deserves recognition on its own merit. His ability to rebound after a rough first series showed the kind of mental toughness and adaptability that coaches value in quarterbacks. Leading the Browns to a halftime advantage against a starting-caliber defense will only strengthen his position with the coaching staff and teammates as they head toward the regular season.
Whether the social media exchange between Compton and Griffin becomes a footnote or continues as a running theme this season, one thing is already clear. Sanders has made an immediate impact both on the field and in NFL conversations. If his first preseason performance is any indication, he might keep rewriting expectations faster than analysts can adjust their takes on social media.
