A recent account from the scouting combine has shed light on the impression that Shedeur Sanders, a potential top-three pick in this year’s NFL Draft, left on several teams. The son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, Shedeur's meetings have sparked mixed reviews, particularly from two individuals representing different franchises, as reported by NBC Sports’ Matthew Berry.
According to Berry's recap, both evaluators expressed disappointment, describing their interactions with Shedeur Sanders as unprofessional and disinterested. “They both said it was a bad meeting and that he came off as unprofessional and disinterested,” Berry noted. This feedback has raised concerns about Sanders' demeanor, particularly given the expectations surrounding a player projected to be a top pick. The same evaluators also met with Miami Hurricanes quarterback Cam Ward, who received high praise for his performance in their meeting.
The Cleveland Browns, who are expected to utilize their second overall pick on a quarterback, had a favorable opinion of both Sanders and Ward, according to NBC Sports. This is particularly significant as the team’s current quarterback, Deshaun Watson, is recuperating from a second Achilles tear. Berry emphasized that while there were negative impressions from certain individuals, it's crucial to consider that opinions can vary widely among teams in the 2023 NFL Draft. He pointed out that every team he spoke to was enthusiastic about Ward, while Sanders did not garner the same level of positive feedback.
Berry also provided some context, suggesting that Shedeur Sanders might have had an off day during the meetings or could have intentionally downplayed his performance with teams he wasn't interested in joining. The spotlight was on Sanders at the scouting combine, where he made headlines for his bold statements about wanting to change a team’s culture. This confident approach has been perceived by some as bordering on cockiness.
Deion Sanders, who coached Shedeur at Colorado, has cautioned his son about the challenges that come with being in the spotlight. In a recent interview on SiriusXM NFL Radio, Deion said, “I told him, first of all, don’t believe nothing that they say, because people are going to criticize you so you fall to them.” His words highlight the intense scrutiny young athletes face, especially during critical evaluations like the scouting combine.
Some former NFL stars, including Shannon Sharpe and Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, discussed the criticisms surrounding Shedeur on their “Night Cap” podcast. They pointed out that confidence can often be mistaken for arrogance. NFL reporter Josina Anderson weighed in, expressing disappointment over a quarterbacks coach from a team in the top seven picks referring to Sanders as “brash” and “arrogant.” Anderson noted that this assessment is not universally held, as others within the team view Sanders differently.
As the 2023 NFL Draft approaches, Shedeur Sanders remains a focal point of discussion. While some teams have expressed reservations about his conduct during the scouting combine, others see the potential in his talent and confidence. This dichotomy illustrates the complexities of player evaluations in the lead-up to the draft, where every impression counts.
