Shedeur Sanders, the standout quarterback for the University of Colorado, is currently the center of speculation leading up to the 2025 NFL Draft. With the draft just around the corner, both fans and analysts are debating which team will be fortunate enough to select this impressive young talent, all under the watchful eye of his father, NFL legend Deion Sanders. The conversations around Shedeur are not only about his skills on the field but also about the potential influence of his father when it come to his landing spot.
Recent rumors suggest Shedeur may be selective about his future team, particularly with regard to the New York Giants and Cleveland Browns, two franchises often cited as potential landing spots. According to the social media account "NFL Rookie Watch," there is a "high likelihood" Shedeur would refuse to play for these teams if drafted. This assertion immediately caught the attention of Deion Sanders, who felt it necessary to publicly refute the claim. "A lie don't care who tells it. Please stop trying to become relevant by misrepresenting my son. God bless you," he shared on social media.
Deion's protective stance indicates he wants to shield his son from any negative speculation surrounding his future. Earlier statements made by Deion suggest he has at least some influence over where he hopes Shedeur ends up playing. He explained during the "Million Dollaz Worth of Game" podcast, "I know where I want them to go... it's going to be an Eli (Manning)." The suggestion here is clear; if the situation feels unfavorable, they might make their preferences known, much like Eli Manning did when he was drafted by the San Diego Chargers only to refuse to play for them, resulting in his trade to the New York Giants. The possibility of history repeating itself does raise eyebrows as Shedeur prepares for his own draft experience.
Adding to the intrigue, it has come to light recently via various mock drafts by expert analysts, including CBS Sports, who have forecasted Shedeur could be selected as high as the No. 2 overall pick, either by the Giants or the Las Vegas Raiders. Sanders has flirted with the Giants recently, evident from videos showing him enjoying time with Giants rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers on the streets of New York City. Yet, with the Giants holding the second overall pick and certain to draft a quarterback, the question remains—will Shedeur Sanders be their choice?
Shedeur's talent is unquestionable. Under his leadership, he has put together impressive stats this season, affirming his status as one of the top quarterbacks eligible for the upcoming draft. His arm strength, poise under pressure, and ability to make plays with his legs have impressed scouts nationwide. That said, it remains to be seen how much his father's opinions and preferences will influence Shedeur's draft day decisions, particularly if he ends up being selected by one of the teams on the rumored 'do not play for' list.
Even among the speculation, Shedeur's mind on the situation seems to remain focused. Friends and analysts alike have indicated he is ready to embrace whatever challenge the draft may throw at him, provided the opportunity proves right. Given the high pressure of the NFL, this careful navigation of potential teams may well determine the course of his professional career but the influence of Deion Sanders is sure to protect and guide him through the highs and lows of the process.
Draft day is set for April 24, 2025, and as the clock ticks down, interest around Shedeur and the prospects he is weighing will only intensify. With tales of his father’s NFL career well known and watched closely, Deion Sanders’ involvement adds another layer of complexity to the narrative. Deion hasn’t shied away from the fact he will look out for his son, even hinting he might act behind the scenes to communicate preferences if the situation calls for it.
The world of sports is ripe with stories about legacy and family dynamics, and as Shedeur Sanders prepares to step boldly onto the NFL stage, fans are eager to witness how this saga will develop. Will the talented quarterback join the ranks of promising drafts only to navigate the uncertainties of team preferences? Time will tell, and as both father and son prepare for this pivotal moment, their united front will remain intact—together steering through the challenges of professional football, one draft pick at a time.