LeBron James Has Words for Two NFL Rookies on Friday

LeBron James Has Words for Two NFL Rookies on Friday originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James was tuned in to the NFL's preseason games on Friday, and sure enough, he loved what he saw from two rookies in particular.

There were three preseason games scheduled for the day, and by the looks of it, James had a particular interest in the Cleveland Browns-Carolina Panthers game, as well as the New England Patriots-Washington Commanders showdown.

James Sends Message to Shedeur Sanders

James has be en supportive of former Colorado Buffaloes star Shedeur Sanders. During the Browns' rookie minicamp, the Lakers forward even sent a special message to the young QB amid all the criticism and hate he's been getting.

With Sanders earning the starting nod against the Panthers, it's not surprising that James was watching the game.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders started in the team's preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers.Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Sure enough, after Sanders impressed with two touchdowns in the second quarter, James couldn't help but react as well — clearly proud of what the 23-year-old QB has done.

"That young [prince] looking good out there!" James wrote. "@ShedeurSanders Keep going UP!!! HEAD down on the grind and HEAD high to the most high."

Sanders, who was eventually replaced by Tyler Huntley, finished his preseason debut with 138 yards and two passing touchdowns on 14-of-23 pass completion.

Lakers Great Hyped By Former Ohio State RB

Sanders was not the only rookie that James was watching on Friday. As an Ohio State fan, the four-time NBA champion also had his eyes on former Buckeyes running back TreVeyon Henderson.

Henderson, who was drafted No. 38 overall in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, started for the Patriots against the Commanders and didn't waste time showing his elite speed.

Henderson pulled off a 100-yard kickoff return in his very first NFL touch, which left James in awe.

"THEE OHIO STATE!!! Speed kills!" James wrote on his Instagram Stories while sharing an ESPN video of Henderson's play.

Considering how Sanders a nd Henderson performed in their preseason debuts, it's safe to assume that James will keep watching them once the 2025 season officially starts.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 9, 2025, where it first appeared.

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