As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, all eyes are on Shedeur Sanders, the highly touted quarterback from the University of Colorado, and the swirling narratives surrounding his potential selection. With his father, Deion Sanders, at the helm as head coach, Shedeur's journey has been marked by both impressive performances and intense scrutiny.
On April 24, 2025, ESPN NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky sparked controversy with his analysis of Shedeur Sanders, suggesting that the young quarterback's performance in college could impact his draft stock. "In 2024, Sanders was sacked 42 times, more than anyone in FBS," Orlovsky pointed out, raising concerns about the situations leading to those sacks. He emphasized that if he were a team considering drafting Sanders, he would want to review those plays closely. "There are too many situational, selfish sacks — where they’re unnecessary at times. When you’ve got points potentially on the board," he remarked.
Orlovsky's comments drew a sharp response from Deion Sanders, who labeled him a "hater" on social media. This exchange highlights the pressure and attention surrounding Shedeur as he prepares for the draft. Deion Sanders, a former NFL star himself, understands the weight of expectations that come with the family name. "When that last name is on your back, you’re going to be attacked and ridiculed by naysayers," he stated, but he remains confident in his sons' abilities to handle the criticism.
Shedeur Sanders, who is projected to be a first-round pick, has had a stellar collegiate career. In 50 games, he threw for 14,347 yards and 134 touchdowns against 27 interceptions, completing 70.1% of his passes and adding 17 rushing touchdowns. Despite the accolades, recent reports have raised doubts about his readiness for the NFL. One assistant coach described his interview as one of the "worst" he had experienced, further fueling speculation about his draft position.
As the draft nears, the narrative surrounding Shedeur has shifted. Once seen as a potential top pick, he now faces uncertainty. "Months ago, he was the 1B to Cam Ward's 1A, but in recent days, his stock appears to have fallen," reported Fox News. This sentiment was echoed by NFL analyst Ed Werder, who discussed the possibility of Shedeur experiencing a freefall in the draft due to the negative media coverage he has received.
Deion Sanders, however, remains unfazed by the swirling doubts. He expressed pride in his sons' resilience, stating, "They are built for this. Keep bringing it on, we’ve already won. We came from a private school. And we came from an HBCU. We’ve won. Shedeur's getting drafted. He’s going in the first round. Shilo’s going to do his thing. All he needs is his opportunity." His confidence is palpable, even as his younger son, Shilo Sanders, faces the prospect of going undrafted.
Shilo, who transferred to Colorado after two seasons at South Carolina, had a rocky season but remains hopeful. Deion Sanders defended his son, highlighting his consistent performance despite a single poor outing. "Shilo's got several years of film that are impeccable. He’s been a pillar of consistency. Shilo is a dog," he stated, emphasizing the importance of opportunity in the NFL.
As Shedeur prepares to hear his name called in Green Bay, he reflects on the journey that brought him to this point. He acknowledges the challenges of living up to the Sanders legacy but insists he is ready for the spotlight. "I could bring cameras and eyes anywhere I go," he said confidently, indicating that he is not fazed by the pressure of being a Sanders.
Critics have pointed out that Shedeur's braggadocio may have turned some teams away, but Deion Sanders is quick to defend his son's demeanor. "I don't know what they expect from my kids. They're daddy's sons, man," he remarked, highlighting the unique challenges they face in the spotlight.
In a sport where performance is scrutinized under a microscope, the Sanders family has learned to navigate the noise. Deion Sanders, reflecting on his own career, noted the differences in media scrutiny between his time and the present day. "They receive a lot more ignorance than I did. I was a two-sport star at the time, so you could imagine what it would have been like with all the hate and the naysayers," he said.
As the draft unfolds, the Sanders family will undoubtedly be a focal point. With Shedeur's potential first-round selection, the anticipation is palpable. The narrative surrounding him continues to evolve, with many rooting for his success despite the challenges. Whether he goes early or faces a slide down the draft board, one thing remains certain: the Sanders legacy will continue to shine brightly in the NFL.
As the night draws closer, the excitement builds. Will Shedeur Sanders defy the odds and secure a top pick? Or will the doubts voiced in the media prove to be a significant hurdle? The football world waits with bated breath, eager to see where this talented quarterback will land and how he will navigate his NFL career.
