The 2025 NFL Draft was full of surprises, but none bigger than Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders—once projected as a potential first-round pick—falling all the way to the 5th round before being selected by the Las Vegas Raiders.
Fans and analysts were stunned as Sanders, the electrifying playmaker and son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, saw his draft stock plummet over the past year. So, what went wrong? Here’s the inside story on why NFL teams passed on him repeatedly.
1. Injury Concerns Loomed Large
Sanders battled multiple injuries during his final college season, including a lingering shoulder issue that raised red flags during medical evaluations. Teams worried about his durability, especially after he missed key games late in the year.
2. Struggles Against Elite Competition
While Sanders put up big numbers against weaker opponents, his performances against top-tier defenses (like Oregon, Ohio State, and Texas) were shaky. Scouts questioned his ability to handle NFL-level pressure after he threw 7 interceptions in those three games alone.
3. System QB Label Stuck
Many evaluators believed Sanders thrived in Colorado’s QB-friendly offense but lacked the refined mechanics to succeed in a traditional NFL system. His tendency to hold the ball too long and rely on improvisation scared off teams looking for a pro-ready passer.
4. Off-Field Distractions?
Though not a major factor, some teams reportedly had concerns about the media circus surrounding Sanders. With his father, Deion, being such a high-profile figure, questions arose about whether Shedeur could focus solely on football at the next level.
5. A Deep QB Class Hurt His Stock
The 2025 draft was loaded with quarterback talent, including Carson Beck (Georgia), Quinn Ewers (Texas), and Drew Allar (Penn State), who all went in the first two rounds. Sanders simply got lost in the shuffle as teams prioritized safer prospects.
The Silver Lining: A Chip on His Shoulder
Now, Sanders joins the Raiders as a potential steal—armed with motivation to prove his doubters wrong. Head coach Antonio Pierce has already praised his “competitive fire,” and in a QB room that could use a spark, Sanders might just find his opportunity sooner than expected.
Final Thought: Shedeur Sanders’ draft slide will go down as one of the biggest surprises of 2025. But if history has taught us anything, counting out a Sanders is a dangerous game.
What do you think—will Shedeur prove the NFL wrong? Sound off in the comments!
