Mel Kiper, baffled by the Shedeur Sanders’ slide, was trending for his thoughts on the situation.
Breaking down this draft’s winners and losers with @MelKiperESPN and @FieldYates:
🎧 https://t.co/PLSoWetikh https://t.co/COi32L653w
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 28, 2025
Shedeur Sanders, the son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, experienced a surprising drop in the 2025 NFL draft. Once projected as a top prospect, Sanders was ultimately selected by the Cleveland Browns with the 144th overall pick in the fifth round. Sanders’ journey to the NFL has been unique.
Rounding out our draft class with 5️⃣ things to know about Shedeur Sanders
📰 » https://t.co/SX8H5F8PDJ pic.twitter.com/13PifTCTQ3
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) April 28, 2025
As the son of a famous athlete, he has been in the national spotlight for much of his young life. He made headlines not only for his talents on the field but also for his leadership and composure under pressure. Several factors may have contributed to Sanders’ unexpected slide in the draft.
the QB room adds another dynamic piece with our 144th pick
📰 » https://t.co/6mmZOg2dE4 pic.twitter.com/dxAaVUVqKe
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) April 26, 2025
While his on-field performance at the University of Colorado was stellar, certain off-field dynamics and perceptions may have played a role. Some scouts also cited concerns about his ability to transition seamlessly to the professional level. During the NFL scouting combine, Sanders addressed media questions confidently, showing the poise and professionalism he is known for.
Yet, despite his strong performance and interview skills, he remained on the board until the middle rounds.
💥💥 @TheMMQB Takeaways 💥💥
➡️ My take (and info) on the Shedeur freefall.
➡️ The @Browns' draft haul.
➡️ How the @Jaguars vetted Travis Hunter.
➡️ Backstory on @Panthers, @NYJets, @Raiders picks.
➡️ Which teams were trying to trade up?
➡️ MORE!https://t.co/TRKaeNGDME— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) April 28, 2025
Shedeur’s draft-day perseverance
Former NFL quarterback and analyst Boomer Esiason revealed that multiple NFL owners had directed their teams to remove Sanders from their draft boards.
This move reportedly stemmed from concerns about Sanders’ attitude and approach during the pre-draft process. Esiason explained, “When you listen to this kid talk, whether just before or at the Combine, he spoke about transforming locker room culture and how he could turn things around. He came across as very confident, perhaps overly so, which many coaches and general managers found off-putting.”
Sanders’ journey also intersected with broader cultural and racial discussions within sports.
As a prominent Black quarterback with a famous father who has been an outspoken advocate for racial equality, Sanders’ draft experience sparked conversations about the continued challenges faced by Black quarterbacks in the NFL. Despite the lower draft position, Sanders remains optimistic. He has stated that he is ready to prove himself at the professional level and make a significant impact on the field.
“I’ve always been about overcoming obstacles and showing what I can do,” Sanders said. “Being drafted is a blessing, and I’m ready to get to work with the Browns.”
As Shedeur Sanders prepares for his rookie season, all eyes will be on him to see if he can defy the odds and carve out a successful NFL career. His journey will no doubt continue to inspire conversations about talent, perseverance, and the complexities of the sports world.
