The first round of the 2025 NFL Draft was surprising. The standout name? Shedeur Sanders. Despite calling himself the top quarterback, he went unpicked. Many expected him to be a Day 1 choice, given his confidence and talent, but teams didn’t take the risk.
As Friday rolled in, all 32 teams passed on him again, leaving three rounds completed without Sanders being selected. Once touted as a possible top-five pick, he now awaits his fate on Day 3 of the draft.
So, what’s next for the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders? Will someone finally take a chance on him Saturday at noon ET, during Rounds 4 to 7? Here are some teams that might consider him:
1. Philadelphia Eagles
Though the Eagles recently won a Super Bowl and have Jalen Hurts, they might look to develop Sanders. If he doesn’t perform right away, he could still be a valuable backup or trade option down the line.
2. Arizona Cardinals
While they have Kyler Murray and Jacoby Brissett, Murray’s future isn’t guaranteed. If he falters, adding Sanders could provide options for the future.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars
With Trevor Lawrence’s injury history in mind, having Sanders as a backup could be smart. He’d complement the team well, especially with his connection to playmaker Travis Hunter.
4. Indianapolis Colts
They’ve invested in Daniel Jones, but there’s still room for competition. Sanders could be a fresh option in their quarterback mix.
5. Dallas Cowboys
Jerry Jones has been open to younger quarterbacks. A late-round pick like Sanders could fit into their strategy nicely, and it would be a nod to Deion Sanders’ legacy.
6. Los Angeles Rams
Sean McVay has had his share of reclamation projects. With Matthew Stafford aging, Sanders could be a developmental prospect worth considering.
7. New York Jets
While they’ve built around Justin Fields, they might see Sanders as a valuable asset to have in case things go awry.
8. Pittsburgh Steelers
Though they’ve passed on Sanders, they still need a solid quarterback option. He might fit better now with lowered expectations, especially if Aaron Rodgers stays.
9. Las Vegas Raiders
In a season where they need win-now results, Sanders’ past ties with minority owner Tom Brady could spark interest.
Expert Insight
Analysts suggest that the draft is about risk and reward. Teams typically seek players who can deliver immediate safety and potential long-term benefits. The uncertainty around Sanders’ earlier hype might indicate a strategy to mitigate long-term risk from a player who has shown glimpses of talent but carries concerns.
As draft day unfolds, social media buzz indicates mixed feelings about Sanders. Some fans back his potential, while others remain skeptical, reflecting a broader trend of how pros and prospects get endlessly dissected in today’s media landscape.
In conclusion, while Sanders has faced setbacks, several teams are eyeing him. The next rounds will be pivotal not just for him but also for the franchises looking to solidify their quarterback talent.