In a NFL draft season that has been notably lacking in drama and excitement, one prospect stands out as a captivating figure: Shedeur Sanders. The former quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes and son of football legend Deion Sanders has emerged as a hot topic leading up to Thursday’s draft event. The speculation surrounding his professional potential is anything but unanimous, with analysts predicting he could be selected anywhere from the No. 3 overall pick by the New York Giants to No. 9 by the New Orleans Saints, or possibly even fall outside the first round entirely.
While Sanders has faced significant scrutiny for his performances on the field, he has also been the subject of harsh critiques off the field. One quarterbacks coach labeled him as “brash” and “arrogant,” while another described his formal interview as “the worst” he had ever conducted, branding Sanders as “entitled.” Despite these criticisms, Sanders remains unfazed. In an interview with NBC News in April, he stated, “I truly don’t have any space for negativity, so it doesn’t play a factor in my life at all.” His resolve shines through as he emphasizes the importance of positivity over negativity.
Growing up as the son of one of the NFL’s most vibrant personalities, Sanders feels well-prepared to handle the surrounding noise. He has not shied away from making bold statements, such as showcasing his $70,000 watch during postgame celebrations, a move that has caught the attention of both fans and peers alike. “I’m happy everything is happening this way. I like a lot of chaos, because it shows you who’s really there,” he remarked, indicating that he embraces the challenges that come with being a high-profile athlete. “People hating on a kid for no reason... I don’t get in trouble off the field, so you understand what it’s really about,” he added.
When it comes to his performance as a quarterback, Sanders presents a complex picture. Over his two years with the Buffaloes, he amassed an impressive total of 64 touchdown passes and completed 74% of his throws in his senior year. However, the fact that he took 94 sacks in the last two seasons raises questions about his tendency to hold onto the ball for extended periods. Nevertheless, Sanders played a pivotal role in transforming Colorado from a one-win team in 2022 to a nine-win team by 2024, showcasing his impact on the program.
As he prepares for the upcoming draft, Sanders has sought guidance from esteemed former quarterbacks. Names like Michael Vick, Byron Leftwich, and Robert Griffin III have all been sources of support and advice for him. “A lot of African American former quarterbacks understand what’s going on in society and have become big brothers for me,” Sanders mentioned, highlighting the importance of these relationships in navigating the challenges of his future career.
When the draft commences on Thursday night, the selection of Shedeur Sanders is expected to be one of the most dramatic moments of the broadcast. However, Sanders has indicated that fans should not anticipate an emotional outburst upon his selection. “It’s just something that comes with playing the caliber of football I played,” he explained, adding that he is more invested in seeing where his friends end up. “If it was a big surprise to me, then I wouldn’t feel like I earned it. That’s what will be on my mind,” he stated.
If Sanders is indeed selected as the third overall pick by the Giants, he would enter a city that is eagerly awaiting a talented quarterback. He expressed confidence in his ability to handle the pressures of such a significant role, stating, “I don’t think there’s a quarterback that will ever be prepared for that more than I am.” As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on this dynamic prospect and the future that awaits him in the NFL.
