Tyrann Mathieu isn’t happy with the addition of Shedeur Sanders to this year’s Pro Bowl lineup. The former Super Bowl champion expressed his disappointment with the decision to feature the Cleveland Browns quarterback at the prestigious event. During a recent episode of “In the Bayou With Tyrann Mathieu,” the three-time First-team All-Pro safety made his feelings known, stating, “We cannot reward mediocrity.”
Sanders, who started seven games in his rookie season, ended with a record of 3-4. Mathieu pointed out that Sanders had more interceptions than touchdowns in his first NFL season, with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions as the Browns finished at the bottom of the AFC North with a 5-12 record. Despite his less-than-stellar performance, Sanders was named as a replacement for the Pro Bowl due to several quarterbacks being unavailable due to injuries.
Josh Allen was chosen as the starting quarterback for the AFC side, with Justin Herbert and Drake Maye as reserves. Other alternates at the position include Joe Burrow, Joe Flacco, and Sanders. It’s believed that Sanders made the list due to fan voting and his recognizable name as the son of football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. The Browns missing the playoffs led to head coach Kevin Stefanski losing his job, with Todd Monken taking over. Sanders expressed excitement about working with the former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator.
Sanders himself expressed surprise at receiving a Pro Bowl nod, stating that he was caught off guard by the news. Despite the unexpected honor, he is taking things one day at a time. Known for his accuracy, Sanders struggled in his first season, posting a completion percentage of 56.6 and throwing for 1,400 yards.
With the worst passer rating in the NFL in 2025 among those with a minimum of 200 attempts, Sanders finished with a 68.1 rating. Many have compared his controversial selection to Tyler Huntley’s surprise Pro Bowl nod in 2022. Sanders is the first Browns quarterback to make the Pro Bowl since Derek Anderson in 2008. The Pro Bowl is set to take place on Tuesday.
Tyrann Mathieu’s criticism of Sanders’ Pro Bowl selection has sparked a debate among football fans. It remains to be seen how Sanders will perform in the showcase event and if he can prove his critics wrong.
