Though the 2024 NFL Draft is still fresh in our minds, the attention of scouts, executives, and football fans is quickly turning toward the 2025 NFL Draft — and no name has generated more buzz (and debate) than Shedeur Sanders.
The Colorado quarterback has become one of the most polarizing prospects in the nation, and with his name appearing in nearly every first-round mock draft, the conversation surrounding his future is heating up. Will he be a top-five pick? Could he slip out of the first round entirely? And what’s the latest on his NFL Combine decision?
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📈 Where Shedeur Sanders Stands in the 2025 NFL Draft
After throwing for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns in 2024, Shedeur Sanders cemented himself as one of the top quarterbacks in college football. He led the Big 12 in passing while completing 74% of his throws, flashing the decision-making, pocket presence, and arm talent that NFL scouts covet.
But his path to the top of draft boards hasn’t been a smooth one. Some draft analysts rank him as a surefire top-five selection. Others have him pegged as a fringe first-rounder.
The uncertainty stems from several factors — inconsistency under pressure, questions about his mechanics and release, and a lack of elite offensive line play at Colorado that muddled evaluations. Still, Shedeur Sanders’ upside is undeniable.
🧠 NFL Combine Absence: A Smart Play?
One of the biggest headlines of draft season was Sanders’ decision to skip the NFL Combine. Critics raised eyebrows, but supporters, including former NFL MVP Cam Newton, were quick to defend the choice.
“Shedeur has more to lose than gain,” Newton said. “If he had a Will Howard type of combine, he’d be questioned as a first-round pick. But the tape doesn’t lie. He’s definitely a top-5 pick.”
Newton emphasized that Sanders’ performance on the field — not in a controlled workout setting — should define his draft stock. He echoed what many scouts and insiders already believe: Sanders’ resume speaks for itself.
🎓 College Career Recap: From Jackson State to Boulder
Shedeur Sanders began his college journey under the spotlight at Jackson State, helping revolutionize HBCU football under the leadership of his father, Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders. As SWAC Offensive Player of the Year in 2022, Sanders earned a reputation as a poised passer with elite accuracy and game awareness.
When Deion Sanders took the Colorado job, Shedeur followed, quickly establishing himself as the Buffs’ offensive cornerstone. Despite a 4–7 record and a porous offensive line, Sanders threw for over 3,200 yards and 27 TDs in 2023 — and topped that with an even more impressive 2024 campaign.
| Season | Completions | Attempts | Completion % | Yards | Average Yards/Pass | Touchdowns | Interceptions | Long Pass (yds) | Passer Rating |
| 2024 | 353 | 477 | 74.0% | 4,134 | 8.7 | 37 | 10 | 69 | 168.2 |
| 2023 | 298 | 430 | 69.3% | 3,230 | 7.5 | 27 | 3 | 75 | 151.7 |
| 2022 | 341 | 483 | 70.6% | 3,732 | 7.7 | 40 | 6 | 86 | 160.4 |
| 2021 | 272 | 413 | 65.9% | 3,231 | 7.8 | 30 | 8 | 74 | 151.7 |
🧩 Strengths and Scouting Report
🔹 Accuracy
Shedeur thrives in the short and intermediate game, consistently delivering accurate passes under pressure. His ability to throw into tight windows is among the best in the class.
🔹 Poise Under Pressure
Even when defenders are closing in, Sanders keeps his eyes downfield and remains composed. His internal clock is improving, though he still holds the ball longer than ideal.
🔹 Mobility
Sanders is not a run-first QB, but he can extend plays with his legs. He’s elusive in the pocket and rarely gets rattled when things break down.
🔹 Leadership
Though his demeanor on and off the field has sparked debate, Sanders exudes confidence. NFL teams looking for a QB who can command a locker room will pay close attention to his interviews and pro day.
🕵️♂️ Cam Newton & The QB1 Debate
Cam Newton didn’t hesitate to rank Sanders as one of the top quarterbacks in the class.
“He’s definitely a top-five pick. He can go 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.”
Newton’s endorsement adds fuel to the QB1 conversation. With Cam Ward, Jaxson Dart, and others making their case, Sanders remains firmly in the mix.
🤔 Team Fits & Draft-Day Scenarios
🔹 Los Angeles Rams
CBS Sports linked the Rams to Shedeur Sanders at pick No. 26, viewing him as a developmental QB behind veteran Matthew Stafford. The fit is intriguing — Sanders has modeled parts of his game after Tom Brady, and learning behind Stafford could accelerate his growth.
🔹 Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders have been connected to Sanders frequently. They need a young quarterback, and Sanders’ charisma fits the Vegas market. He could be a strong candidate if he slides outside the top 10.
🔹 New York Giants
The Giants are another team to watch, especially after adding Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston in short-term moves. If they love Sanders, they could take him to groom behind veterans.
🔹 New Orleans Saints / Cleveland Browns / Tennessee Titans
All three franchises are rumored to be exploring future QB options. If any of them fall within range or trade up, Sanders could be on the radar.
💬 What Deion Sanders Thinks
Unlike earlier comments suggesting he’d try to steer Shedeur to a preferred team, Deion Sanders has softened his stance.
“If it’s New York, it’s New York. If it’s Tennessee, Cleveland, or still the Raiders, I’m happy with it,” Coach Prime told Skip Bayless. “Because I know what he’s going to do to the organization.”
Deion added that Shedeur isn’t afraid of pressure and embraces being doubted — traits that have defined his rise.
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📝 Shedeur Sanders NFL Draft Stock: Rising, Falling, or Holding?
Shedeur Sanders’ stock is steady, but where he ultimately lands will depend on:
- How many quarterback-needy teams pick early
- Whether he impresses in private team meetings and his pro day
- The trajectory of rival QBs like Cam Ward, Riley Leonard, and Quinn Ewers
At the moment, he’s a consensus first-rounder with a shot at cracking the top 5.
🧠 NFL Comparisons
The most common comp? Geno Smith.
Like Smith, Sanders is polished but not elite in any one trait. He’s accurate, athletic, and confident — but he’ll need the right situation to thrive. Think of a scenario like Geno with the Seahawks or even Jalen Hurts with the Eagles: system fit and coaching will be everything.
🏆 Long-Term NFL Outlook
If Shedeur Sanders lands in a stable system with strong offensive line support, he could develop into a franchise quarterback. His upside is similar to Dak Prescott or Jared Goff — players who may not “wow” in every workout but win games, lead confidently, and make the throws that matter.
📌 Final Word
Shedeur Sanders enters the 2025 NFL Draft as one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in recent memory. His decision to skip the NFL Combine hasn’t hurt his status — in fact, it might have been the smartest move of all.
Backed by high-level production, a strong pedigree, and a belief in his talent, Sanders has a real shot to be the face of a franchise for years to come.
And with the draft just around the corner, don’t be surprised if a team makes a bold move to secure him — even if it means jumping into the top five.
