The startling development over the weekend reveals that Shedeur Sanders continues dramatic slide in NFL Draft astonishing analysts, fans, and NFL executives alike. Initially anticipated to be a top-five selection, Sanders’ unexpected drop has profoundly altered the draft scenario.
As the second and third rounds concluded on Friday, Sanders was still without a selection, prompting widespread speculation about the reasons behind this turn of events and the future prospects for the skilled quarterback.
The Unforeseen Decline of a University Superstar
It was expected that Sanders would be chosen early on the second day following the surprising developments of Thursday night. However, in an unforeseen turn of events, not a single team selected him during the 102 picks.
In fact, five quarterbacks were chosen prior to Sanders, with Tyler Shough, Jalen Milroe, and Dillon Gabriel securing positions before the former Colorado star.
Cam Ward, who had previously been ranked lower than Sanders, ultimately became the first overall selection by the Tennessee Titans. Despite evident needs for a quarterback, teams such as the Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and Pittsburgh Steelers opted not to draft Sanders.
Even after several chances, his name remained uncalled, underscoring the extent of the unexpected outcome. Shedeur Sanders continues dramatic slide in NFL Draft.
The Events of the Second Day: Additional Disappointments
During the second day of the draft, teams such as the Browns and Saints, who were in urgent need of a quarterback, had several opportunities to select Sanders. However, they opted for other players, surprising those who anticipated that Sanders’ considerable talent would guarantee him an early selection.
The Browns passed on him twice, while the Saints chose Shough with the 40th pick, and Pittsburgh selected running back Kaleb Johnson with their 83rd pick. Meanwhile, Seattle moved up to select Milroe at pick 92, and the Browns again chose Dillon Gabriel at pick 94, further contributing to Sanders’ decline in the draft.
This sequence of decisions left Pittsburgh as the only team still in search of a quarterback without having made a selection, which created a slim possibility for Sanders to be picked there.
Nevertheless, with each subsequent selection, the situation became increasingly concerning, reinforcing the notion that. Shedeur Sanders continues dramatic slide in NFL Draft in a way no one had foreseen.
Comparisons to Historic Draft Slides
Sanders’ predicament has inevitably led to comparisons with Aaron Rodgers’ notorious draft experience in 2005.
At that time, Rodgers endured a prolonged wait until he was selected as the 24th pick by the Green Bay Packers. However, the intensity of Sanders’ current situation is even more pronounced.
He has not only fallen out of the first round but is also still available well into the second day a scenario that few would have anticipated. Analysts and critics had cautioned that Sanders might drop to the second round due to late concerns regarding his preparedness for the NFL.
Nevertheless, no one foresaw that he would remain undrafted after more than 100 selections. This situation could potentially be recognized as the most remarkable decline in NFL Draft history.
What Are the Future Prospects for Shedeur Sanders?
Although Sanders’ recent setback is undoubtedly disheartening, his prospects remain promising. The Pittsburgh Steelers, who engaged with Sanders during the pre-draft evaluations, could still be a viable option for him.
Owner Art Rooney II remarked, ‘He is interested in joining us, so I anticipate we may receive news shortly,’ indicating that optimism is not entirely absent.
However, should Pittsburgh choose him, Sanders will likely be regarded as a project player rather than an immediate starter. Additionally, other teams positioned in the later rounds may take advantage of the situation.
Considering Sanders’ remarkable collegiate performance, highlighted by a leading 74% pass completion rate, it appears highly probable that someone will ultimately invest in his potential.
Despite the current disappointment, there is ample reason to believe that Sanders can recover and establish a successful career in the NFL.
Expert Editorial Comment
The 2025 NFL Draft has proven to be an emotional whirlwind filled with unexpected developments. From Cam Ward’s astonishing ascent to the first overall pick to surprising trades and unconventional selections, the draft has captivated fans throughout.
In this tumultuous environment, even a player of Sanders’ caliber found himself taken a back. Although Shedeur Sanders continues his dramatic slide in NFL Draft, his story might eventually turn into one of perseverance and redemption.
Both fans and scouts will be observing intently as the draft unfolds. Although Friday proved to be challenging for Sanders, Saturday presents a fresh opportunity, new possibilities, and potentially the commencement of his NFL career.