Shedeur Sanders, the star quarterback for the University of Colorado and son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, has been one of the most polarizing prospects in college football. With elite stats, undeniable talent, and a famous last name, many expected him to be a lock for the 2025 NFL Draft. Yet, as the draft approaches, his stock remains uncertain—and the reasons are more complex than they seem.
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The Talent Is Undeniable
There’s no question Shedeur has the skills. In his two seasons at Colorado (after transferring from Jackson State), he threw for over 6,800 yards, 58 touchdowns, and just 14 interceptions while facing Power 5 competition. His poise in the pocket, quick release, and ability to extend plays have drawn comparisons to NFL starters like Kirk Cousins and Derek Carr.
So why isn’t he being talked about as a surefire first-round pick?
The System & Supporting Cast Questions
One major concern among scouts is the unconventional offense Shedeur operates in. Colorado’s scheme, heavily influenced by Coach Prime’s vision, relies on quick passes and improvisation—raising questions about whether Sanders can thrive in a traditional NFL system. Additionally, his offensive line was one of the worst in college football, leading to him taking a record number of sacks. While some see his ability to handle pressure as a positive, others worry about durability and whether his success can translate behind a better line.
The “Coach’s Kid” Narrative
Being Deion Sanders’ son comes with perks—but also skepticism. Some evaluators wonder if Shedeur has been overhyped due to his name and the media circus surrounding Colorado. NFL teams are notoriously cautious about drafting players whose hype may outweigh their actual pro readiness (see: Arch Manning’s ongoing evaluation at Texas).
Injury Concerns & Durability
Shedeur’s toughness isn’t in question—he played through injuries in 2023, including a fractured back. But NFL teams are wary of investing high draft capital in a QB with a history of playing hurt, especially given how often he was hit.
The Draft Class Factor
The 2025 QB class is stacked with names like Carson Beck (Georgia), Quinn Ewers (Texas), and Drew Allar (Penn State), who come from more traditional systems. In a crowded field, Sanders may be seen as a high-upside project rather than a Day 1 starter.
What’s Next?
While Shedeur may not be a top-10 pick, his floor is likely Day 2 (Rounds 2-3), with teams like the Las Vegas Raiders, Seattle Seahawks, or New Orleans Saints potentially taking a swing on his upside. Another strong season at Colorado could solidify his stock—or, if the doubts persist, he may face a longer road to proving himself in the league.
One thing’s for sure: wherever he lands, the spotlight will follow. And if there’s one thing Shedeur Sanders has shown, it’s that he thrives under pressure.
