The 2025 NFL Draft has unfolded with its fair share of surprises, but none more shocking than the precipitous fall of Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Once projected as a top-five pick, Sanders found himself still on the board as Day 2 concluded, with five quarterbacks selected ahead of him. This unexpected slide has sparked widespread debate and speculation about the factors contributing to his draft-day tumble.
The Rise of Shedeur Sanders
Shedeur Sanders’ journey to the NFL was marked by impressive collegiate achievements. After transferring from Jackson State to Colorado, he led the Buffaloes to a 9–4 record in 2024. Over 13 games, Sanders completed 74% of his passes for 4,134 yards, 37 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. His performance earned him first-team All-Big 12 honors and the conference’s Offensive Player of the Year award .
Beyond his on-field prowess, Sanders’ high-profile status as the son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders and the quarterback for a prominent program like Colorado further elevated his draft stock. Analysts and scouts had long considered him among the top quarterbacks available in the 2025 draft class.
The Unexpected Slide
Despite the accolades and expectations, Sanders’ draft trajectory took an unforeseen turn. As Day 2 of the NFL Draft concluded, five quarterbacks had been selected ahead of him. Notably, Cam Ward of Miami was taken first overall, followed by Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss), Tyler Shough (Texas Tech), Jalen Milroe (Alabama), and Dillon Gabriel (Oklahoma) .
This sequence raised eyebrows, especially considering Sanders’ previously projected status as a top-five pick. The reasons behind this unexpected slide have been the subject of much speculation.
Factors Contributing to Sanders’ Fall
1. Pre-Draft Interviews and Personal Assessments
Reports emerged indicating that Sanders’ pre-draft interviews did not leave a positive impression on some NFL teams. An anonymous longtime NFL assistant coach described Sanders’ interview as the “worst” they had experienced, citing issues with his body language and demeanor. Another AFC executive echoed these sentiments, suggesting that Sanders’ approach may have alienated potential suitors .
2. On-Field Concerns
While Sanders’ statistics were impressive, some scouts expressed concerns about aspects of his gameplay. Critiques centered on his decision-making under pressure, tendency to take unnecessary sacks, and occasional struggles with timing in the pocket. These factors led some evaluators to question his readiness for the NFL’s demands .
3. Off-Field Perception and Media Scrutiny
Sanders’ high-profile status brought increased media attention, which, while beneficial in many respects, also subjected him to heightened scrutiny. Some critics suggested that his public persona and the visibility of his father, Deion Sanders, might have influenced teams’ perceptions, potentially leading to biases in the evaluation process .
Reactions from the Football Community
The unexpected slide of Shedeur Sanders has elicited strong reactions from various quarters. Prominent sports commentators Stephen A. Smith and Skip Bayless criticized the decision to pass on Sanders, labeling it as “disgusting” and “unprecedented.” Smith speculated that the situation might be reminiscent of Colin Kaepernick’s controversial exit from the NFL, suggesting that external factors beyond on-field performance played a role in Sanders’ fall .
Despite the setbacks, Sanders maintained a composed demeanor. In response to the draft’s developments, he shared a message of gratitude on social media, stating, “Thank you GOD for EVERYTHING.” This response garnered support from fans and NFL figures alike, including Robert Griffin III and Patrick Mahomes .
Looking Ahead
As Day 3 of the NFL Draft approaches, Shedeur Sanders remains a highly intriguing prospect. While his fall from the first round is unprecedented, his collegiate achievements and potential as a quarterback cannot be overlooked. Teams seeking a quarterback with his skill set and leadership qualities may find value in selecting him in the later rounds.
The saga of Shedeur Sanders serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in the NFL Draft process. Performance on the field is crucial, but off-field factors, personal assessments, and team dynamics also play significant roles in shaping a player’s draft position. For Sanders, the journey is far from over, and the next chapter awaits as he looks to prove his worth at the professional level.