In recent weeks, Shedeur Sanders’ stock has been under a microscope, not because of his on-field play, but due to what’s being labeled as “character concerns.”
Reports from the NFL Combine painted a less flattering picture of his interviews and personality, which some insiders say has caused teams to take a cautious approach. Combine that with pre-draft skepticism from analysts and you have a situation where a quarterback with first-round ability is now a borderline Day 2 pick.
Even Bobby Stroupe, best known as Patrick Mahomes’ longtime trainer, has voiced doubts about Sanders’ draft position.
“I don’t think Sanders is going to get drafted in the first round,” Stroupe said.
When asked why, Stroupe pointed to Sanders’ demeanor and overall presence, suggesting that while Sanders is talented, there may be more to consider than just tape and statistics.
Falling to round two isn’t a death sentence
It’s easy to panic when a player begins to “fall” in mock drafts, but history has shown us that great quarterbacks can be found beyond round one. Drew Brees, Jalen Hurts, and even Brett Favre didn’t go in the first 32 picks. All three proved that talent and mindset eventually win out.
Much like Brady, Sanders isn’t necessarily a jaw-dropping physical talent. But what he brings to the table is something far more valuable: poise, accuracy, football IQ, and leadership. These are traits that helped him shine even as Colorado struggled late in the 2024 season.
Sanders’ ability to throw under pressure and read defenses is far more refined than many of the quarterbacks currently projected ahead of him. And let’s not forget-several teams still have a major quarterback need.
The Steelers, Saints, and Raiders have all been linked to quarterback selections, and if Sanders is still available late in the first, trade-up scenarios could come into play.
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