With the 2025 NFL Draft just weeks away, all eyes are on Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, one of the most closely watched prospects in this year’s class. At his recent Pro Day, Sanders gave scouts a final look at his skill set-and while many were impressed, not everyone walked away without concerns.
Among the voices chiming in was New York Jets defensive back Andre Cisco, who took to social media to issue a sharp warning to Sanders. “Boy better stop patting that ball,” Cisco posted, referencing a tendency Sanders showed during his throwing reps. “We breakin onnat earlyyyy.”
A subtle flaw with major implications
Cisco’s observation may sound minor, but for defenders at the NFL level, habits like patting the football before a throw can become glaring giveaways. Quarterbacks who telegraph their passes, even for a split second, can become easy targets for ball-hawking safeties like Cisco.
Sanders, however, has been praised for his ball security throughout his college career. In two seasons, he threw 64 touchdowns and only 13 interceptions, maintaining a completion rate above 70% in both years. Still, Cisco’s comment serves as a reminder: the leap from college to the NFL is steep, and even elite college habits can be liabilities on Sundays.
Sanders betting on himself
Despite the criticism, Sanders remains confident. Speaking recently on ESPN’s NFL Live, the quarterback made his case to front offices across the league.
“All I need is an opportunity. Simple,” Sanders said. “Whatever franchise wanna change they franchise, then it’s no doubt who to go with. I’ve done it. Over and over. You’d be a fool not to pick me.”
His confidence isn’t unfounded-Sanders has already helped reshape two college programs and believes he can set the tone for a locker room at the next level.
Draft night decision looms
Sanders may not be the first quarterback off the board-that title likely belongs to Cam Ward-but he won’t have to wait long. With several QB-needy teams in the top 10, all it might take is the right trade to land Sanders in a situation built for success.
The countdown to April 25 in Green Bay has begun, and Shedeur Sanders is ready for the spotlight-flaws and all.
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