Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll recently opened up about his early impressions of quarterback Shedeur Sanders, revealing a surprising admiration that dates back to the pre-draft process.
Despite the team eventually passing on him during the 2025 NFL Draft, and Sanders landing in Cleveland, Carroll’s comments now carry added weight as Sanders prepares for his first NFL start against the Raiders.
Carroll admitted that he spent extra time with Sanders during evaluation.
“Just trying to understand where he was coming from, realizing he had been under enormous pressure growing up and just naturally with the pops that he had and all that. … He’s got a really good outlook on the world and how he deals with all the stressers and of the things that comes his way.
“I really liked him. He’s a piano player. … I was impressed with the kid.”
Carroll’s respect for Sanders and the bromance with Brady
Carroll’s interest in Sanders reportedly went beyond casual admiration. Reports suggest that the Raiders considered trading up in the draft to secure him, a move that would have required significant resources and strategic planning.
The motivation was two-fold: the Raiders’ long-term need at quarterback and Sanders’ personal connection with Tom Brady, a minority owner in Las Vegas. Brady and Sanders reportedly share a close relationship, adding intrigue to the potential partnership.
Draft analysts even speculated on a possible trade scenario with Cleveland to reach the No. 2 pick, highlighting the high level of interest in Sanders.
Despite Carroll’s advocacy, some decision-makers in the Raiders organization remained hesitant, questioning whether the timing was right to make such a bold move. NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah noted that while Carroll clearly saw promise in Sanders, the team may have prioritized other needs.
Sanders, who played at Colorado under his father Deion Sanders, ultimately fell to the fifth round, selected 144th overall by the Cleveland Browns. Although drafted later than many expected, Carroll’s praise underscored the quarterback’s unique potential.
The personal connections continue to play a role on the field. Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, who has known the Sanders family for years, called facing his friend “a fun battle,” highlighting the camaraderie and respect shared off the field.
While Sanders’ NFL debut was modest, completing just 4 of 16 passes, Carroll’s early recognition of his talent appears well-founded. As Sanders steps into the starting role for the Browns, the Raiders’ pre-draft interest stands as a reminder that potential can be spotted even before the first snap.
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