Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders has been a highly talked about prospect in the NFL draft for months now. Many experts and fans alike had him pegged as the potential first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, as the pre-draft process got fully underway and teams started to dissect his game and schedule in-person interviews with him, his draft stock began to fall. Ultimately, he ended up being drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round. But according to former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III, another team should have taken a chance on Sanders.
In an interview with The Cold Wire, Griffin III expressed his belief that the Detroit Lions should have drafted Sanders instead of passing on him and selecting a different quarterback in the first round. Griffin III, who played for the Lions in 2021 before retiring, has had the opportunity to observe Sanders closely and is confident in his abilities.
“Shedeur Sanders is a special talent,” Griffin III said. “I had the chance to see him play up close and personal during his time at Colorado and I truly believe he has what it takes to be a successful quarterback in the NFL.”
Griffin III’s endorsement of Sanders is not to be taken lightly. He himself was a highly touted quarterback prospect coming out of college, winning the Heisman Trophy in 2011 and being drafted second overall by the Washington Redskins. He also had a successful rookie season, leading the Redskins to their first playoff appearance in five years.
So what makes Sanders stand out as a potential franchise quarterback? According to Griffin III, it’s his combination of athleticism and football IQ.
“Shedeur has all the physical tools you look for in a quarterback,” Griffin III explained. “He has a strong arm, quick feet, and great pocket presence. But what sets him apart is his intelligence and understanding of the game. He is able to read defenses and make quick decisions, which is crucial for success at the NFL level.”
Sanders has also been praised for his work ethic and leadership qualities. Despite being the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, he has not let his family’s legacy overshadow his own hard work and dedication. He has been described as a humble and coachable player, always looking to improve and learn from his mistakes.
But despite all of his positive attributes, Sanders’ draft stock took a hit during the pre-draft process. Some experts questioned his consistency and decision-making under pressure, leading to his fall to the fifth round. However, Griffin III believes that this could work in Sanders’ favor.
“Sometimes, being drafted later can be a blessing in disguise,” Griffin III said. “It takes away some of the pressure and allows a player to develop without the spotlight constantly on them. I have no doubt that Shedeur will use this as motivation to prove all the doubters wrong and become a successful NFL quarterback.”
As for the Cleveland Browns, who ultimately drafted Sanders, Griffin III believes they have made a great choice.
“Cleveland is a great organization with a strong coaching staff and talented players,” he said. “I have no doubt that Shedeur will thrive in that environment and make a name for himself in the NFL.”
In conclusion, while Shedeur Sanders’ draft stock may have fallen, there is no doubt that he has the potential to be a successful quarterback in the NFL. His combination of physical abilities, football IQ, and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset to any team. And according to Robert Griffin III, the Detroit Lions may have missed out on a future star by passing on him. But for Sanders, this is only the beginning and he is ready to prove himself on the biggest stage in football.
