Colorado Football: Deion Sanders’ Sons, Travis Hunter and Shedeur, Invited to NFL Combine
Four players under head coach Deion Sanders at the University of Colorado have received invitations to the prestigious NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis later this month. However, one notable name is absent from the list: Sanders’ middle son, Shilo.
Shilo Sanders: Expected Absence
As a safety, Shilo Sanders was Colorado’s leading tackler in 2023 and third-leading tackler in 2024, despite missing three games with a broken forearm. His absence from the combine is a surprise, given his impressive college career.
Sanders, 25, was not expected to be an early-round draft pick but did participate in the East-West Shrine Bowl college all-star game last month in Texas, where he recorded five tackles.
Invited Buffs
Alongside Sanders’ sons, Travis Hunter and Shedeur, two other Colorado players have earned combine invitations: receivers Jimmy Horn Jr. and LaJohntay Wester.
Hunter, a defensive back, is expected to be a top pick in the NFL draft in April, marking the first time since 2021 that a player has been drafted directly out of the University of Colorado. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders is also projected to be a high draft pick.
Horn and Wester were key contributors to Colorado’s offense, with Horn ranking second on the team in receiving and Wester leading the Buffs in receiving yards.
Other Notable Absences
In addition to Shilo Sanders, wide receiver Will Sheppard was not invited to the combine, despite being third on the team in receiving.
Combine Details
The NFL announced a total of 329 prospects have been invited to attend this year’s combine from February 24 through March 3. The NFL draft will commence on April 24 in Green Bay.
Impact on Colorado Football
The invitations to the NFL Combine are a testament to the talent and potential of Colorado’s football program under coach Deion Sanders. The presence of Hunter and Shedeur Sanders in particular will generate excitement and buzz for the Buffs as they aim to continue their resurgence.
While Shilo Sanders’ absence is a disappointment, it does not diminish the overall success of the program. The combine invitations are a positive sign for the future of Colorado football, and the draft in April will be a crucial opportunity for the invited players to showcase their abilities and pursue their NFL dreams.
