The 2025 NFL Draft experienced a remarkable turn of events: Shedeur Sanders, who was anticipated to be a top-five selection, was ultimately chosen in the fifth round as the 144th pick by the Cleveland Browns.
This surprising decline has sparked extensive debate among analysts, executives, and fans. What elements led to this unexpected fall?
Assessing Shedeur Sanders’ Decline in the Draft
Before the draft, Shedeur Sanders was considered one of the most highly regarded quarterback prospects. During his time at Colorado, he demonstrated remarkable skill, accumulating over 4,100 passing yards and 37 touchdowns in the 2024 season.
His outstanding performance led to him receiving the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year award and being recognized as a leading candidate for the Heisman Trophy.
Analysts and scouts expected him to be chosen in the first two rounds, with some even predicting he could be the first overall selection. (FOX 5 Atlanta, New York Post)
Elements Affecting His Decline
1. Perceptions Beyond the Field
Despite his achievements on the field, worries regarding Sanders’ conduct off the field started to emerge. Reports suggested that certain NFL executives viewed him as ‘conceited’ and ‘overbearing,’ especially during his interviews at the NFL Combine.
An unnamed coach characterized their meeting with Sanders as ‘the most unprofessional interview I have ever experienced,’ pointing to concerns such as a sense of entitlement and inadequate body language. (SI, FOX 5 Atlanta)
2. The impact of Deion Sanders
The participation of Shedeur’s father, Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, contributed to the quarterback’s decline in the draft.
Certain executives believed that Deion’s public statements and significant impact during the draft process fostered an impression of unprofessionalism. This viewpoint raised concerns regarding Shedeur’s autonomy and judgment. (New York Post)
3. Formulating Process Resolutions
Sanders’ choice to forgo important pre-draft activities, including the NFL Scouting Combine and the East-West Shrine Game, drew significant attention.
Analysts expressed concern over this decision, arguing that it restricted teams’ chances to assess his abilities and character. ESPN analyst Matt Miller remarked that Sanders’ absence from these events adversely affected his draft prospects. (The US Sun)
Assessment of Team Performance
Despite his remarkable college performance, NFL teams held differing opinions regarding Sanders. Certain executives classified him as a ‘game manager’ instead of a franchise quarterback, expressing doubts about his athleticism and arm strength.
Draft analyst Lance Zierlein characterized Sanders as ‘merely average,’ highlighting his lack of the exceptional traits anticipated from a top draft choice.
Furthermore, some teams expressed concerns about Sanders’ leadership approach and his emphasis on personal branding, which they believed could undermine team cohesion. A senior decision-maker remarked, ‘It’s not about being a brand; it’s about being a teammate and securing a position.‘
The viewpoint of the Browns.
The Cleveland Browns, who ultimately chose Sanders, have shown confidence in his abilities.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski highlighted that the team’s choice was grounded in an assessment of Sanders’ skills and compatibility with their system, rather than outside opinions.
Stefanski minimized the importance of Sanders participating in second-team drills during rookie minicamp, clarifying that it should not be seen as a reflection of the depth chart. (New York Post)
Expert Editorial Comment
The unforeseen decline of Shedeur Sanders in the 2025 NFL Draft can be linked to various factors, such as off-field perceptions, the impact of his father, and choices made throughout the draft process.
Despite his undeniable talent, these aspects led to a considerable decrease in his draft stock.
As Sanders begins his professional career with the Cleveland Browns, he has the chance to validate his abilities and show that his potential transcends the controversies that marked his draft experience.