The 2025 NFL Draft has been marked by unexpected twists, none more startling than the precipitous fall of Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Once projected as a potential first overall pick, Sanders’ absence from the first three rounds has left analysts and fans alike questioning the factors that led to this unforeseen drop.

The Rise to Prominence

Shedeur Sanders’ collegiate journey began at Jackson State, where he quickly made a name for himself. In 2021, he threw for 3,231 yards and 30 touchdowns, earning the Jerry Rice Award as the nation’s top freshman. His success continued in 2022 with 3,732 yards and 40 touchdowns, followed by a standout 2023 season at Colorado, where he led the Big 12 in passing yards (3,230) and touchdowns (27) .

The 2024 season further solidified his reputation. Sanders set Colorado school records with 4,134 passing yards and 37 touchdowns, completing 74% of his passes . His performance earned him the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award and Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year honors .

The Draft Expectations

Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders was widely regarded as one of the top quarterback prospects. Analysts praised his accuracy, poise under pressure, and leadership qualities. ESPN’s scouting report highlighted his ability to make quick decisions and his effectiveness in clutch situations .

However, as the draft approached, concerns began to surface. Some scouts questioned his ability to transition from Colorado’s spread offense to a pro-style system. Additionally, there were reports of inconsistent mechanics and a tendency to hold onto the ball too long, leading to unnecessary sacks .

The Fall Begins

Despite early projections placing Sanders in the first round, his draft stock began to decline. Reports emerged of poor performances during interviews at the NFL Combine, with one unnamed coach describing him as “brash” and “arrogant” . These off-field concerns, coupled with questions about his on-field adaptability, led some teams to reassess their evaluations.

As the first round unfolded, Sanders’ name remained conspicuously absent. By the end of Day 1, he had not been selected, a shocking development for a player once considered a top-tier prospect.

Day 2: A Glimmer of Hope

The second day of the draft brought renewed optimism for Sanders. Teams like the Cleveland Browns, with picks No. 33 and No. 36, were rumored to be interested in adding him to their roster . However, as the rounds progressed, other quarterbacks were chosen ahead of him, and Sanders’ wait continued.

Day 3: The Unexpected Turn

Finally, in the fourth round, the Las Vegas Raiders selected Shedeur Sanders with the 108th overall pick . This selection marked a significant drop from his anticipated first-round status.

Analyzing the Slide

Several factors contributed to Sanders’ unexpected fall:

1. Off-Field Concerns

Interviews during the NFL Combine reportedly revealed a lack of humility and a sense of entitlement, which raised red flags for some teams .

2. System Fit

Sanders’ experience in a spread offense at Colorado led to questions about his ability to adapt to a pro-style system, a transition that many quarterbacks struggle with .

3. Physical Limitations

At 6’1″ and 215 pounds, Sanders is considered slightly undersized for an NFL quarterback. Additionally, some scouts noted a slower throwing motion and concerns about his deep-ball accuracy .

Reactions from the Football Community

The draft community was taken aback by Sanders’ slide. Analysts and former players expressed their disbelief. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith and FS1’s Skip Bayless both criticized the decision, with Smith comparing it to the NFL’s treatment of Colin Kaepernick .

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes also weighed in, posting a cryptic “Crazy” message on social media, which fans interpreted as a comment on Sanders’ unexpected fall .

Looking Ahead

While Sanders’ draft experience was unconventional, it doesn’t define his future in the NFL. The Raiders, known for their developmental approach, may provide the ideal environment for Sanders to refine his skills and adjust to the professional game.

In the coming seasons, it will be interesting to see how Sanders evolves as a quarterback and whether he can fulfill the potential that many once saw in him.

Shedeur Sanders’ journey to the NFL has been anything but typical. From a projected first-round pick to a fourth-round selection, his story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the draft process. As he embarks on his professional career, only time will tell if he can overcome the challenges and prove that his fall was merely a setback on the path to success.