The Uncertainty Surrounding Shedeur Sanders Ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft
In a surprising move on a late Friday night, the Las Vegas Raiders made headlines by trading for quarterback Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks. This acquisition has once again stirred discussions about the quarterback landscape in the NFL, especially regarding the potential trajectory of Shedeur Sanders from the University of Colorado. An AFC executive has hinted that the Raiders may still have their eyes on Sanders as we approach the upcoming draft.
Last season taught NFL teams an important lesson about predicting quarterback movements. A notable example was the Atlanta Falcons, who, after signing Kirk Cousins to a hefty contract, shocked everyone by drafting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in the 2024 draft. This unexpected decision emphasized that when a franchise is desperate for a solution at quarterback, they may explore all possibilities, regardless of previous signings or contracts.
As the draft approaches, uncertainty looms around Sanders’ prospects. Some analysts project he could be picked as high as second overall, while others speculate he might drop out of the first round altogether. To gain more clarity on his standing, I surveyed 12 NFL talent evaluators, including general managers and heads of personnel, on Sanders’ draft value leading up to Colorado’s pro day, taking place from March 18 to March 21.
The Draft Dilemma: Predicting Player Movement
An NFC general manager shared insights on the evolving dynamics of quarterback talent acquisition, emphasizing that traditional predictions are becoming increasingly unreliable. The Falcons’ unusual strategy last season, in which they signed a high-profile quarterback but still opted to draft another, illustrates that teams may not shy away from stacking their options if they sense a need.
This unpredictability maintains Sanders’ relevance in discussions about the Raiders’ plans. Evaluators are paying close attention to how the Raiders handle Geno Smith’s contract and their overall actions leading up to the draft. Key signs will include who they send to attend Sanders’ pro day and any workouts they conduct with him, as such visits could suggest a heightened interest in potentially drafting him.
Evaluating Sanders: The Impact of NIL and Perceptions
Another layer to Sanders’ draft discussion involves how the recently implemented Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals are affecting player attitudes and perceptions. Some evaluators have noted a shift in mentality among athletes who have received substantial NIL compensation — some appear less concerned about proving themselves during the draft evaluation process. This evolving landscape can lead to negative perceptions, with some players being labeled as entitled or arrogant.
While perceptions of Sanders vary widely, some evaluators expressed concerns about his approach during interviews, claiming that entitlement may play a role in how he presents himself. However, these character judgments can often be misleading. As one evaluator noted, some players still manage their finances prudently despite having access to NIL funds, while others may indulge in luxuries, possibly influencing how they are viewed during the evaluation process.
The impact of socio-economic background also cannot be ignored in this dynamic. The expectations and attitudes surrounding players from wealthier backgrounds can differ significantly from those of players who faced adversity. Evaluators often take these factors into account when assessing a quarterback’s potential, although this can lead to biases that complicate fair evaluations.
The Agony of Uncertainty
Currently, opinions on Sanders’ draft stock are diverse. Some view him as a promising prospect with resilience and leadership qualities, while others highlight his need for the right team and coaching environment to succeed at the NFL level. As one evaluator put it, he may need a “right fit” to flourish, unlike some of the league’s top quarterbacks who can adapt to various teams.
As the draft approaches, the ambiguity around Sanders’ prospects appears to be intensifying. Many experts feel that his standing could shift significantly based on upcoming evaluations, particularly during his pro day. Ultimately, this uncertainty adds a layer of excitement and unpredictability to the 2025 NFL Draft, suggesting that we may not have clear answers regarding Sanders until the time comes for teams to make their choices.
With a few weeks remaining before the draft, all eyes will be on Sanders to see how he performs and whether this will clarify his status as a top prospect or deepen the mystery surrounding his future in the NFL.
