Nationwide — Shedeur Sanders, former Colorado quarterback and son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, was not selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. The snub followed sharp criticism from NFL executives and coaches about his attitude, leadership, and play style.Sanders entered the draft with high expectations. He was the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and set an FBS record with a 71.8% career completion rate. Many expected him to be among the top picks, but no team called his name on opening night.
According to the New York Post, one veteran NFL coach described Sanders’ combine interview as the “worst formal interview” he’s ever experienced. He cited poor body language, entitlement, and a habit of blaming teammates. An AFC executive said Sanders tried to control the process and made others feel “small.”
Some coaches acknowledged his skills as a passer but said he needs to improve physically and adapt to the demands of the pro level. His confident personality and high-profile background sparked mixed reactions from scouts and front offices.
Sanders chose not to attend the draft in Green Bay and instead watched with family and friends in Texas. After going undrafted in the first round, he remained positive. “I don’t feel like this happened for no reason. All this is of course fuel to the fire,” he said in a video, according to ESPN. “We’re on to bigger and better things. Tomorrow’s the day.”
With the second round ahead, teams like the Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints could still be potential landing spots. Sanders now looks to prove himself and show teams why he was considered one of the draft’s top quarterbacks.