The buzz around Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders is palpable as we approach the 2025 NFL Draft. Many scouts and analysts have shared their opinions on his potential, with some placing him among the top contenders for the first-round pick. However, not all feedback has been positive, with certain evaluators expressing significant reservations about his readiness and suitability for the NFL’s top spot.
High Expectations and Early Predictions
From the moment betting books launched their odds for the 2025 NFL Draft’s No. 1 pick, Shedeur Sanders found himself in the spotlight. According to NBC Sports evaluator Connor Rogers, this was a surprising development.
“When all of the betting books launched their No. 1 pick odds, he was the No. 1 guy,” Rogers said on Pro Football Focus’ “NFL Stock Exchange” podcast. “I’ll be honest with you as an NFL Draft analyst that’s watched now a lot of Shedeur Sanders, my jaw hit the floor to think of Shedeur Sanders as the favorite No. 1 overall pick in next year’s draft.”
Current Odds and Competition
As it stands, FanDuel lists the following odds for the first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft:
- QB Carson Beck, Georgia: +300
- QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado: +450
- DL James Pearce Jr., Tennessee: +650
- QB Quinn Ewers, Texas: +1400
- QB Cameron Ward, Miami: +1700
- QB Drew Allar, Penn State: +1900
- WR/DB Travis Hunter, Colorado: +2200
This competitive landscape underscores the fierce debate about Sanders’ position in the draft pecking order.
The Concerns Surrounding Shedeur Sanders
Propensity to Hold the Ball
One primary criticism against Sanders is his tendency to hold onto the ball for too long, leading to an alarmingly high number of sacks. Last season, Sanders was sacked 52 times, the highest among NCAA quarterbacks. Rogers attributed this issue to Sanders’ indecisiveness and inability to release the ball under pressure quickly.
Mechanics and Deep Ball Struggles
While Sanders has shown proficiency in short-to-intermediate routes and across the middle of the field, his mechanics and performance on deep throws have been called into question. “I think his arm is average at best,” Rogers noted. “…Deep sideline throws are a work in progress to me. I thought he was relatively inaccurate and lacked the required velocity when he was throwing outside the numbers.”
This assessment is supported by Sanders’ statistics: a 41.1% completion rate on passes of 20 or more yards, significantly lower than his completion rates for intermediate (55.1%) and short throws (83.8%). These numbers suggest a clear area for improvement if Sanders hopes to excel at the next level.
Effective Short-to-Intermediate Passing
Despite the concerns, Sanders has shown considerable skill in certain areas. His ability to effectively throw on short-to-intermediate routes and his accuracy across the middle of the field are notable strengths. These skills are essential for any quarterback and demonstrate Sanders’ potential to develop further.
Room for Improvement and Growth
Every young quarterback has areas that need refinement, and Sanders is no exception. His work ethic and willingness to improve will be critical as he prepares for the NFL. Addressing his weaknesses, particularly his deep ball accuracy and decision-making under pressure, will be essential steps in his development.
A Polarizing Prospect
Shedeur Sanders remains a polarizing figure as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches. While his potential is undeniable, the concerns raised by analysts like Connor Rogers highlight the work that lies ahead for Sanders. His performance in the coming season will be crucial in determining whether he can overcome these challenges and solidify his place as a top pick.
As the draft draws nearer, all eyes will be on Sanders to see if he can rise to the occasion and prove his critics wrong. The journey to the NFL is never easy, but with determination and improvement, Sanders has the opportunity to silence his doubters and achieve greatness. For more detailed analysis and updates on Shedeur Sanders and other draft prospects, stay tuned.
Source: Yardbarker
