Shocking Slide: Shedeur Sanders Goes Undrafted in First Round of 2025 NFL Draft, Leaving Fans and Analysts Stunned as Colorado QB Misses Early Selection Despite Hefty Hype and Strong College Performance
In one of the most surprising developments of the 2025 NFL Draft, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders fell out of the first round, leaving fans, analysts, and draft experts scratching their heads. Once projected by many to be a top-10 pick, Sanders’ name was not called on the draft’s opening night, leading to a wave of reactions across social media and sports news outlets.
Shedeur, the son of NFL Hall of Famer and Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, entered the draft with considerable hype. He put up strong numbers during his college career, showcasing a quick release, pocket poise, and impressive football IQ. His ability to lead under pressure and perform against tough competition had scouts intrigued, but apparently not convinced enough to pull the trigger in the first round.
Throughout the college football season, Sanders displayed maturity and resilience, often under relentless defensive pressure due to Colorado’s struggling offensive line. He still managed to throw for over 3,500 yards with a solid touchdown-to-interception ratio, earning accolades and keeping his name in early Heisman conversations. While the Buffaloes’ record didn’t reflect elite performance, Sanders’ individual play often stood out.
So, why did he fall?
Several factors may have contributed. Some teams reportedly had concerns about his tendency to hold onto the ball too long, leading to unnecessary sacks. Others questioned his fit in certain offensive systems or felt his level of competition and protection skewed evaluations. There were also whispers of him being selective about which teams he’d want to play for, potentially influencing how teams approached drafting him.
Still, the consensus was that Sanders had done enough to warrant a first-round selection. ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. called his slide “one of the biggest surprises of the night,” while NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah said, “Talent-wise, Shedeur belongs in the first round. This might be more about team fit and timing than performance.”
Deion Sanders, who was present at the draft with his son, remained composed but clearly disappointed. In a brief interview, he said, “This is just part of the journey. Shedeur’s story isn’t over—it’s just beginning.”
Shedeur’s slide out of the first round doesn’t mean his NFL dreams are over. In fact, several quarterback-needy teams early in the second round could see him as a steal. Franchises like the Las Vegas Raiders, New York Giants, and New Orleans Saints still have questions at quarterback and could pounce on Sanders when the draft resumes.
Draft history is filled with quarterbacks who slipped out of the first round only to go on and have stellar careers—think Drew Brees, Derek Carr, or even Jalen Hurts. For Sanders, the spotlight has always been bright, and this moment, while tough, might just add fuel to the fire.
As the draft continues, all eyes will remain on Shedeur Sanders. Wherever he ends up, the journey that began under his father’s guidance in Colorado is far from finished. One thing is certain: he won’t forget the wait. And it might just be the chip on his shoulder he didn’t know he needed.
