Two former college football stars, Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward, are generating considerable excitement as projected high-round picks for the 2025 NFL Draft. The duo recently made headlines at the NFL Combine, where they opted not to throw for scouts, a common strategy among quarterbacks in their position. Their decisions reflect a calculated approach as they prepare to compete for the top passer spot in the upcoming draft, scheduled to take place from April 24 to 26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Sanders, a Heisman Trophy finalist this season at Miami, has built a reputation as a game-changer under the guidance of his father, NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. He has demonstrated an ability to turn around programs during his collegiate career at Jackson State and Colorado. Sanders expressed confidence in his skills, asserting that he possesses what it takes to excel at the highest level of football.
In contrast, Ward's path to prominence has been shorter but equally impressive. After dazzling in his first two seasons at Incarnate Word, where he won the Jerry Rice Award as the most outstanding freshman in the Football Championship Subdivision, he transferred to Washington State. This move allowed him to face tougher competition, further honing his skills as a quarterback. Ward is proud of his old-school passer mentality, which he believes is essential for success in the league.
Both quarterbacks are now training together in Dallas, pushing each other as they prepare for the draft. Their camaraderie underscores a mutual respect for one another's talents while also highlighting their competitive nature. As they gear up for their pro days, they plan to save discussions about their projected draft positions for later.
Ward emphasized the significance of hard work and mental fortitude in his journey. “I just put my head down to work every day,” he said. His commitment to excellence is evident as he reflects on his aspirations and encourages others facing similar challenges. “To everybody who was in a situation like me, who’s still gonna be in a situation like me, not having scholarships and all of that, all you gotta do is believe,” he stated.
Ward's strong work ethic is complemented by his belief that one's final destination matters more than where they are picked in the draft. He pointed out that success in the pocket goes beyond physical ability; it requires confidence and diligent film study. “Being successful in the pocket requires confidence, but it also requires film work,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Sanders reiterated the importance of making an impactful choice when drafting a quarterback. Quoting his father, he said, “If you ain’t trying to change the franchise … don’t get me.” Sanders referred to his track record of success as evidence for why an NFL franchise should consider selecting him: “You should know history repeats itself over and over and over. I’ve done it over and over and over. So it should be no question why [an] NFL franchise should pick [me].”
As the draft approaches, speculation about who will be the first passer selected continues to build. Sanders set single-season records at Miami by passing for 4,313 yards and 39 touchdowns, further solidifying his status as a top prospect. Both players are confident that they can succeed in the NFL, regardless of who goes first.
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