Shedeur Sanders, the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, has emerged as one of the most talked-about prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. While he was once projected to be the No. 1 overall pick during the 2024 college football season, recent reports suggest that his draft stock has taken a hit, potentially placing him at the No. 6 overall spot.
The decline in Sanders’ draft positioning has sparked debate among analysts and scouts. Some attribute it to his “arrogant” and “brash” attitude—an unfair label that surfaced after the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. A quarterbacks coach reportedly expressed concern over drafting a player who already possesses the fame and financial security that Sanders enjoys. However, former NFL player and current analyst Ryan Clark strongly disagrees with this assessment, offering a different perspective on the narrative surrounding Shedeur Sanders.
Ryan Clark Defends Shedeur Sanders
Ryan Clark recently addressed the criticisms surrounding Sanders and pushed back against the notion that his confidence is a negative trait. Speaking about the young quarterback’s demeanor, Clark stated:
“You do hear the word arrogant. Why is he arrogant? Because he won’t walk into the meeting and bend the knee, or he won’t sit in the meeting and question himself or his abilities or his knowledge and experience in the game? I don’t believe that that’s arrogance. I want a quarterback that’s so mature.”
Clark further pointed out that the skepticism surrounding Shedeur Sanders is not just about his attitude but also about deeper societal perceptions. He explained:
“We all know that it’s not just about him being Deion Sanders’ son. It’s about the bravado he carries. It’s about the fact that he looks a certain way. It is about the fact that the color of his skin sometimes at that position can be questioned, and I believe Shedeur Sanders is going to have to deal with that until he gets on the field.”
This defense of Shedeur Sanders highlights a recurring challenge that many Black quarterbacks face when entering the NFL. The expectation for them to exhibit a different level of humility compared to their white counterparts has been a long-standing issue in the league.
Shedeur Sanders’ Response to NFL Teams
Despite the ongoing discussions about his perceived arrogance, Shedeur Sanders remains unfazed. His confidence was on full display when asked how he would handle being drafted by a struggling franchise, such as the Cleveland Browns.
His response was both bold and reassuring:
“If you ain’t trying to change the franchise or the culture, don’t get me. So, you should know history repeats itself over and over and over, and I’ve done it over and over and over, so it should be no question why a franchise should pick me.”
Sanders’ statement is rooted in experience. He has already transformed two football programs in his young career, proving that he thrives under pressure.
Shedeur’s Track Record: A History of Success
When Shedeur Sanders and Coach Prime (Deion Sanders) took over Colorado in 2023, the Buffaloes were coming off a disastrous 1-11 season in 2022. Under Shedeur’s leadership, Colorado improved to a 4-8 record in 2023 before posting an impressive 9-4 season in 2024.
Before that, he led Jackson State to prominence, proving his ability to elevate struggling teams. His college journey demonstrates his resilience, leadership, and playmaking abilities—traits that any NFL franchise should desire in their quarterback.
Breaking Down Shedeur Sanders’ Skill Set
Beyond the off-field discussions, Shedeur Sanders possesses the talent to excel in the NFL. His skill set includes:
- Elite Decision-Making: Sanders has shown an exceptional ability to read defenses and make quick, smart decisions under pressure.
- Poise in the Pocket: Unlike many young quarterbacks, he remains calm in the face of pressure and delivers accurate throws.
- Arm Talent: His ability to make deep throws with precision and touch is one of his standout traits.
- Leadership Qualities: His ability to rally teammates and change the culture of a program speaks volumes about his leadership.
Why Shedeur Sanders Deserves More Respect in the Draft Process
While some teams may hesitate to draft Shedeur Sanders due to the narratives surrounding his personality, the reality is that he is one of the most talented quarterbacks in this class. His confidence should not be mistaken for arrogance—it’s a trait that has fueled his success at every level.
Any franchise willing to take a chance on Sanders will not only get a skilled quarterback but also a proven leader who has the ability to turn struggling teams into contenders. The question now is, which NFL team will recognize his potential and hand him the keys to their offense?
