Shedeur Sanders’ dramatic fall to the fifth spherical of the 2025 NFL Draft has ignited hypothesis concerning the causes behind his steep drop. The former Colorado quarterback, as soon as thought of a possible high decide, was chosen by the Cleveland Browns at No. 144 total, leaving followers and analysts questioning what went improper.

On Wednesday, Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson advised the Roggin & Rodney present {that a} “very good source” claimed the NFL had discouraged groups from drafting Sanders, suggesting the league meant to “make an example out of him.” Dickerson added that league representatives reportedly contacted the Browns, cautioning in opposition to taking Sanders.

The following day, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer dismissed the thought of a league conspiracy. Speaking with Dan Patrick, Breer stated most groups merely didn’t see Sanders as a first-round expertise. He famous that quarterbacks hardly ever drop within the early rounds with out trigger, and franchises usually scrutinize prospects extra carefully as soon as draft day passes the primary spherical.

Early pre-draft projections had Sanders competing with Miami’s Cam Ward for the No. 1 quarterback spot. By draft day, most analysts nonetheless projected Sanders as a late first-round decide. Bleacher Report’s remaining large board ranked him twenty third total, and its final mock draft listed him twentieth. His slide to the fifth spherical defied these expectations.

Post-draft reporting provided additional perception. A “high-level executive” advised USA Today that Sanders’ father, Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, could have damage his son’s draft inventory by way of public statements. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero cited an assistant coach who referred to as Sanders’ pre-draft interview “the worst I’ve ever been in,” criticizing his preparation, physique language, and perceived sense of entitlement.

Breer emphasised that soccer elements probably drove Sanders’ fall. Teams usually choose backup quarterbacks to “blend into the furniture,” a philosophy that has hindered careers like Tim Tebow and Colin Kaepernick.

Now with the Browns, Sanders will start his NFL career behind starter Joe Flacco. While the draft slide has generated headlines, his alternative to show himself stays intact.

How Sanders develops beneath stress and adapts to the skilled recreation will probably outline the following chapter of his profession.