Shedeur Sanders’ Unexpected Fall: A Shocking Turn in the NFL Draft!

In an unexpected turn of events concerning one of the most awaited narratives of the 2025 NFL Draft, former Jackson State and Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders was not chosen in the first round Thursday evening.

The aftermath of the initial round contradicted months of predictions that had positioned him among the elite prospects.

Sanders, the offspring of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, entered the draft as one of its most contentious personalities. While several analysts anticipated him to be a potential top-10 selection and even connected him with teams in need of quarterbacks such as the New York Giants, New Orleans Saints, and Pittsburgh Steelers, none mentioned his name during the initial round.

The Giants, who had organized a private session with Sanders and were frequently rumored to be interested at pick No. 3, opted instead for Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter. The Saints, another likely destination at No. 9, bypassed Sanders for Texas offensive lineman Kelvin Banks Jr. Subsequently, the Steelers—considered by many to be a perfect match—selected Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon at pick No. 21.

New York traded back into the first round but chose Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart.

This unexpected decline comes in light of the recent patterns of NFL drafts, where quarterbacks are often taken early, even if their accomplishments are viewed as incomplete or contentious.

This will be portrayed as a slide.

The truth regarding Shedeur Sanders is that it isn’t.

Most teams didn’t regard him as a first-round pick. Many didn’t want to acknowledge that. But it is what it is. That doesn’t imply he can’t be successful. He still can.

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) April 25, 2025

Sanders’ draft status had sparked discussions among league insiders, with some organizations reportedly evaluating him as a second-round talent.

Despite the disappointment of not being picked in the first round, Sanders’ collegiate achievements remain notable. Over four seasons—two at Jackson State and two at Colorado—he amassed over 14,000 yards and 134 touchdowns, exhibiting both resilience and performance under his father’s mentorship.

This response from Shedeur Sanders after not getting drafted in the 1st round perfectly illustrates why he possesses the determination, composure, and maturity to lead an NFL Franchise. He didn’t shy away. He stood firm against adversity and disappointment. This adds to his narrative.

🎥 @DeionSandersJr pic.twitter.com/1tAoHCZpI1

— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) April 25, 2025

Sanders earned SWAC Freshman of the Year, the Jerry Rice Award, and SWAC Player of the Year during his time at Jackson State. 

Sanders is now anticipated to be one of the initial names called when the draft continues with the second round, with teams like the Cleveland Browns potential contenders for his services.