Shedeur Sanders NFL Draft Stock: Is the Hype Justified?
Shedeur Sanders, son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, has been one of the most talked-about quarterback prospects leading up to the 2025 NFL Draft. After a strong 2024 season at Colorado, where he threw for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns, his draft stock remains a hot topic of debate. But is the hype surrounding Sanders justified, or is it simply a product of his famous name and social media presence?
The Case for the Hype
Sanders possesses several qualities that make him an intriguing NFL prospect. His arm talent is undeniable, showcasing the ability to make throws to all levels of the field with accuracy and velocity. In his high school career, he completed 805-of-1,238 passes for 12,627 yards and 166 touchdowns, compiling a 47-5 record. Sanders displays excellent poise and pocket presence, often making smart decisions under pressure. His completion percentage and touchdown passes ranked among the top five in the nation. He led the Buffaloes to a 9-4 record in 2024 and an appearance in the Alamo Bowl. He finished the season with 4,134 passing yards and 37 touchdowns, with him earning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year honors and named the winner of the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
Sanders’s leadership skills are also a major asset. As the quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes, he commanded the offense with confidence and inspired his teammates. His father, Deion Sanders, has instilled in him a strong work ethic and a winning mentality.
The Concerns
Despite his undeniable talent, some concerns surround Shedeur Sanders’s NFL prospects. One of the biggest question marks is his level of competition in college. While he has put up impressive numbers, some scouts question whether he can replicate that success against NFL defenses.
Another concern is Sanders’s tendency to hold onto the ball too long, leading to sacks and negative plays. He needs to improve his decision-making and learn to get rid of the ball quicker when under pressure. In 2023, he missed the season’s final game against Utah with a fracture in his back. Overall, he finished the 2023 season with 3,230 passing yards, 27 passing touchdowns, and three interceptions to go with four rushing touchdowns in 11 games as the Buffaloes went 4–8 .
Draft Projections and Expert Opinions
Draft experts are divided on Shedeur Sanders’s potential in the NFL. Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN had Sanders falling to the New York Jets at No. 7 in his latest mock draft. Kiper believes Sanders would elevate the New York team and allow it to build around his rookie contract. Tom Fornelli of CBS Sports projects Sanders falling to No. 22 overall, where the Cleveland Browns would select him using a first-round pick acquired in a potential trade involving Myles Garrett.
Daniel Jeremiah, an NFL Network analyst, has also weighed in on Sanders’s draft stock. He acknowledges Sanders’s talent but notes that he needs to improve his consistency and decision-making.
The Impact of Deion Sanders
Deion Sanders’s influence on his son’s career is undeniable. As a Hall of Fame player and now a successful college coach, Deion has provided Shedeur with invaluable guidance and support. However, some critics argue that Deion’s involvement could also be a distraction.
The Sanders family has a unique approach to the draft process. Shedeur will not participate in the NFL Combine but will showcase his skills at Colorado’s Pro Day next month. Shedeur and Deion have also announced they will not attend the NFL Draft in Green Bay. Instead, they plan to host a massive Draft Day event at the CU Events Center, creating another opportunity to promote Colorado football.
The Verdict
So, is the hype surrounding Shedeur Sanders justified? The answer is complex. He possesses the talent and potential to be a successful NFL quarterback, but he also has areas where he needs to improve. Ultimately, his success will depend on his work ethic, his ability to learn and adapt, and the team that drafts him.
Whether he lands in Cleveland or elsewhere, his talent and leadership make him one of the most intriguing names to watch in the upcoming draft.