Shedeur Sanders, a record-setting All-American quarterback, is the son of Hall of Fame cornerback and current Colorado head coach Deion Sanders. There would be one further, surprising turn in his NFL draft odyssey. Despite a prolific 2024 season and an impressive all-time FBS record with a 71.8% career completion rate, Sanders did not hear his name called during the draft’s opening round on Thursday night.
Coming into the draft, Shedeur Sanders was one of the most divisive prospects. He saw himself as one of the best talents in the entire draft in turn, exhibiting supreme confidence in his own abilities throughout the pre-draft process. He subsequently declined the invitation to come to draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Instead, he decided to pass that milestone evening with family and close friends in Texas.
The 2023 Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year had plans for himself. He never imagined he’d actually go undrafted on such a historic night. As the first round ended with his non-selection, Sanders was noticeably frustrated but hopeful. Though the reaction may seem disappointing, in a video posted on social media he trained his focus on the positive and promised to stay positive.
“I’m built for whatever today may bring.” – Shedeur Sanders
No one’s gotten more hype over the first half of Shedeur Sanders’ historic season at Colorado. He and his father have brought each of their programs a long way. Their brilliant transition from Jackson State to Colorado has rocked the boat at both schools. This legacy has only deepened the scrutiny surrounding his draft prospects.
Throughout the lead-up to the draft, Sanders emphasized his desire to be selected by a team committed to making significant changes. He made clear his expectations, stating, “If that’s not what you’re trying to do, don’t [pick] me,” and further emphasized the importance of culture shift by adding, “If you ain’t trying to change the franchise or the culture, don’t [pick] me.”
While the absence from first-round selection may be disappointing, Sanders has been unthrown. He addressed the critics who questioned his abilities, asserting, “You think I’m worried about what critics say or what people have to say.” Becoming an athlete known worldwide will require him to be ready, both personally and professionally, for the change.
Shedeur Sanders looks forward to Round 2, which starts Friday night. He’s probably the biggest target out there for teams looking to improve their roster with new talent. We get it—his journey thus far has been an exciting ride of high expectations. His opportunity to prove himself at the professional level is closing—and he knows it.
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