Shedeur Sanders, once touted as a potential first-round pick in the NFL draft, experienced a stunning fall, ultimately being selected by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round. This precipitous drop sparked widespread speculation and analysis, with many questioning what factors contributed to his slide down the draft board.
Insiders from various NFL teams, speaking anonymously, offered insights into the reasoning behind Sanders’ unexpected tumble. While talent was undeniably a factor, a consensus emerged that "other stuff," as one high-ranking decision-maker put it, played a significant role. These "other stuff" factors encompassed concerns about his leadership style, perceived arrogance, and the influence of his father, Hall of Famer Deion Sanders.
One executive specifically pointed to Deion Sanders’ involvement as detrimental, suggesting that some of his public statements might have negatively impacted teams’ perceptions of Shedeur. This highlights the scrutiny that draft prospects face, where even their family’s actions and words can be carefully considered.
Concerns also arose about Shedeur Sanders’ persona, particularly his flashy displays like wearing a customized, diamond-studded watch during games and promoting his clothing line. While these actions might be seen as harmless self-promotion in some contexts, some NFL decision-makers viewed them as evidence of a "look-at-me" attitude that could detract from his role as a team player. The emphasis was placed on earning a job and being a teammate, not being a brand.
One team executive was specifically critical of Sanders’ decision to decline an interview with his team at the combine, especially since the team had an established quarterback and would not be picking in the top 5. While teams often conduct interviews with prospects for future reference, this refusal was perceived by some as an indication of an unrealistic view of his value.
Another element that factored into Sanders’ slide was his perceived arm strength, which was described by one executive as "good, not great." Additionally, concerns were raised about his tendency to hold onto the ball for too long and lock in on targets, contributing to a high number of sacks.
Despite these concerns, some executives acknowledged Sanders’ talent and potential. One executive even predicted that Sanders would go in the first round. He suggested, despite the position rank, the fact he was a quarterback would raise his profile and push him into the first round, especially since he was rated as the second-best quarterback prospect after Cam Ward on their board.
However, the fact that quarterbacks like Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough, Jalen Milroe, and Dillon Gabriel were all drafted before Sanders underscored the significance of the non-football factors that influenced teams’ decisions. For instance, the Browns, who ultimately drafted Sanders, had previously passed on him in favor of Gabriel, citing "fit" as a key consideration.
Some observers have drawn comparisons to other quarterbacks, both black and white, who have faced scrutiny or controversy during the draft process. Examples include Baker Mayfield and Johnny Manziel, who were drafted in the first round, and Cam Newton, whose pre-draft comments about wanting to be "an entertainer and an icon" raised eyebrows. These comparisons highlight the inherent subjectivity and potential biases that can influence the evaluation of quarterbacks.
The draft process itself is described as a "crapshoot," with variations in evaluation standards from one team to another. In addition to pure football and medical grades, some teams also consider an "intensity" grade that encompasses intangibles, cognitive testing, off-the-field issues, and culture fit. These factors further complicate the process and contribute to the unpredictability of draft outcomes.
Interestingly, one NFL executive thought Shedeur’s downfall was his own father’s impact. This stemmed from the belief that Shedeur had some bad advice from his father and that he would have benefited from a more traditional agent. He and his father thought they didn’t need that and it affected the process.
In response to his draft slide, Sanders has expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play in the NFL and acknowledged that there are ways he can improve. This response suggests a willingness to learn and grow, which could serve him well as he embarks on his professional career.
Ultimately, Shedeur Sanders’ draft slide serves as a reminder that the NFL draft is not solely based on talent. A complex interplay of factors, including personality, family influence, and perceived fit, can significantly impact a player’s draft stock. As Sanders begins his NFL journey, he will undoubtedly be motivated to prove his doubters wrong and demonstrate that he has what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
The best thing that could happen to Shedeur Sanders, as one executive said, might be getting away from his father and being on his own, allowing him to develop his own identity and establish himself as a professional player.
Shedeur Sanders must learn a valuable lesson about humility from the draft process. He’s not his father and he doesn’t have that type of ability.
