Shedeur Sanders, the Colorado Buffaloes’ star quarterback, was passed on by all 32 NFL teams on Day 1 of the draft. The 23-year-old came into the draft as the No. 2 quarterback pick, after Miami’s Cam Ward, who was picked No. 1 overall. However, the New York Giants passed on him twice, the New Orleans Saints went another direction, and the Pittsburgh Steelers chose a defensive tackle at No. 21.
Now, Sanders has slid to Day 2 (Rounds 2-3) despite his projected top-10 status and his impressive college stats: 7,364 passing yards, 64 touchdowns, 13 interceptions, and a 71.8% completion rate over two seasons at Colorado (2023-24).
Scouts have repeatedly raised concerns about Shedeur Sanders’ fitness. His 6’1”, 198-pound frame is considered slight, with limited room to add mass, and he lacks elite arm strength or mobility compared to dual-threat QBs like Josh Allen.
ESPN earlier this month reported about scouts doubting his decision-making under pressure, citing the 23-year-old’s FBS-leading 42 sacks in 2024. There are also some off-field perceptions, including his confident personality and the ‘Sanders Brand’, tying him to his father Deion Sanders.
However, with a weaker QB class, Sanders might get a round 2 call. The Colorado star has the third-lowest off-target percentage in FBS, and 99 sacks taken over two years, making him a high prospect.
Shedeur Sanders potential landing spots
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers have a run-heavy offense under Arthur Smith and could see Sanders as a quick fit.
New Orleans Saints (Pick 41, Round 2)
The Athletic’s mock draft projects Sanders to the Saints at No. 9 or later, as Derek Carr’s shoulder injury creates urgency.
Las Vegas Raiders (Pick 38, Round 2)
Multiple mocks (Sporting News, Yahoo Sports) project Sanders to the Raiders at No. 8 or Day 2, citing their desperate QB need and Sanders’ Vegas-friendly charisma.
New York Jets (Pick 39, Round 2)
Big Blue View linked Sanders to the Jets as a potential Day 2 pick if they miss a first-round QB.
