Shedeur Sanders NFL Draft Slide
The Shedeur Sanders NFL Draft Slide became one of the most surprising storylines of the 2025 NFL Draft. Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders entered with high expectations, but instead of hearing his name early, he shockingly fell down the board. Despite multiple quarterback-needy teams, Sanders went undrafted in the first round, prompting a strong reaction from ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper Jr.
An Unexpected Fall in the First Round
At the start of the draft process, Sanders was projected as a potential top-three pick. Experts grouped him with Cam Ward, Travis Hunter, and Abdul Carter—top talents believed to headline the class.
Cam Ward went No. 1 overall to the Chicago Bears. Hunter followed the Jacksonville Jaguars, and Carter landed with the New York Giants. Meanwhile, Sanders was passed over by teams like the Browns, Steelers, Saints, Titans, and even the quarterback-needy Giants.
This drop came as a shock to analysts and fans alike, who believed Sanders had the tools and mindset to thrive in the NFL.
Looking for more stories on rising NFL talent? Read our NFL Draft 2025 rising stars spotlight.
Mel Kiper Jr. Sounds Off on the Disrespect
Mel Kiper Jr. didn’t hold back in his reaction. As one of the most prominent voices in NFL Draft coverage, Kiper publicly criticized the teams that chose to overlook Sanders.
“Shedeur Sanders will come back to haunt these organizations that are passing him up,” Kiper said live on ESPN’s coverage.
Kiper has long admired Sanders for his poise, toughness, and sharp football IQ. He even predicted that Sanders could outperform Cam Ward, the current No. 1 pick, at the next level.
What Makes Shedeur Sanders a Divisive Prospect?
Sanders is arguably the most debated quarterback in this draft class. On one hand, he brings elite accuracy, great decision-making, and strong leadership. On the other hand, scouts have questioned his athleticism, size, and ability to create outside the pocket.
He may not be a dynamic scrambler or possess elite arm strength. However, his ability to read defenses and deliver on-target throws sets him apart. Many analysts now compare him to Brock Purdy, a late-round pick who grew into a Pro Bowl quarterback.
Want to see more quarterbacks like Sanders? Visit our list of NFL quarterback sleepers of 2025.
Deion Sanders Defends His Son
Deion Sanders, also known as “Coach Prime,” is both Shedeur’s father and former head coach at Colorado. After the draft’s opening round, he quickly voiced his confidence in Shedeur’s future.
“Where you start doesn’t matter. What you do with your opportunity does,” said Deion in a post-draft interview.
Throughout the college season, Deion often praised his son’s discipline, mental toughness, and leadership. He believes the NFL will eventually see those qualities shine through.
What’s Next for Sanders?
Although he wasn’t a first-round pick, Sanders still holds strong value going into Day 2 of the draft. Teams like the Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders, and Atlanta Falcons could be potential landing spots.
His fall in the draft might just fuel his motivation. Many expect him to approach the league with a chip on his shoulder, ready to prove everyone wrong.
Track every second-round pick live in our NFL Draft 2025 tracker.
Final Thoughts
The NFL Draft is always full of surprises, but Shedeur Sanders’ slide stands out as one of the biggest. Mel Kiper Jr. has made it clear: teams may regret passing on this quarterback.
With the right environment and support, Sanders has every chance to become a successful NFL starter. His accuracy, confidence, and work ethic give him an edge many can’t teach.
In the coming years, the teams that overlooked him might realize their mistake,j ust as Kiper warned.