Shedeur Sanders NFL Draft: The NFL world was stunned as Colorado’s QB, Shedeur Sanders, didn’t hear his name in the 1st round. Many expected the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders to be a first-round draft pick, but all 32 teams passed on the Colorado football star.
A Surprising Draft Slide for Deion Sanders’ Son
Leading up to the draft, Shedeur Sanders’ draft stock was the subject of heated debate. Some scouts loved his poise and accuracy, while others questioned his mobility and arm strength. Despite back-to-back solid seasons at Colorado, Sanders declined to participate in the NFL Combine, opting only for a single press conference in Indianapolis.
Teams with QB needs like the Titans, Giants, Browns, and Steelers made moves elsewhere. Even clubs with long-term quarterback questions, like the Jets and Saints, chose to reinforce other positions.
Size, Speed, and Sack Rate Raised Concerns
Sanders measured 6’1″, 212 lbs, and while that’s not disqualifying, his pressure-to-sack rate (20.1% in 2024, 25.1% in 2023) raised red flags. He often held onto the ball too long, lacking the short-area quickness that defines many elite quarterbacks. Scouts noted that he wasn’t a dynamic scrambler like Jayden Daniels or C.J. Stroud.
Impressive Accuracy but Average Arm Strength
Sanders posted an 81.8% adjusted completion rate, ranking third in the FBS. However, his average depth of target (aDOT) was just 8.1 yards, indicating a more conservative approach. His arm strength was described as “slightly above average” — not quite at the elite level teams often seek in a first-round quarterback.
A Media Draw, But Not Enough to Sway Teams
With the massive spotlight that follows Deion Sanders’ son, many assumed a team might draft Shedeur simply for the brand power he brings. But NFL front offices appeared focused purely on film and measurables. Even the Steelers, long rumored to be interested, passed.
As of now, Shedeur Sanders remains on the board heading into Day 2, with hopes of being a second-round draft pick.
What’s Next for Shedeur Sanders?
While Shilo Sanders, his brother, also eyes an NFL future, Shedeur’s fate now lies with teams willing to gamble on upside in the later rounds. It’s a twist few saw coming, especially from a high-profile figure in Sanders Colorado football history.
One thing’s for sure: the cameras will be rolling when he finally gets that call.
Source: CBS
