NFL Draft 2025 Shocker: Shedeur Sanders Goes Undrafted in First Round Amid Harsh Criticism & Rising Doubts

In a stunning twist that left fans and analysts buzzing, Shedeur Sanders, once projected as a surefire first-round pick, slid entirely out of the opening round of the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday night. The Colorado standout, known for his confidence and playmaking ability, now finds himself waiting for a second-day call that once seemed unimaginable.

Just weeks ago, Sanders was in the same conversation as Cam Ward, hailed as a 1A/1B quarterback duo. But the tide turned sharply. Ward soared to the top, becoming the No. 1 overall pick to the Tennessee Titans, while Sanders’ stock tumbled in the final days leading up to the draft.

Teams Pass, Rumors Prove True

The buzz about teams cooling on Sanders wasn’t just noise—it was reality. The Las Vegas Raiders made headlines by selecting Ashton Jeanty at No. 6, while the New Orleans Saints added offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. at pick No. 9—both passing up the chance to bring in Sanders.

The Pittsburgh Steelers, widely speculated to be Sanders’ potential landing spot at No. 21, went in a different direction entirely, choosing defensive tackle Derrick Harmon. Even when the New York Giants traded back into the first round, they opted for Jaxson Dart over Sanders. And though the Los Angeles Rams were seen as a potential destination due to Matthew Stafford’s age, they too passed on the Colorado QB.

Behind the Slide: Concerns Off the Field?

While Sanders has undeniable talent, whispers from NFL insiders point to deeper concerns. One anonymous coach didn’t hold back, describing Sanders’ draft interview as “the worst.” The same coach criticized his on-field habits: “He’s so entitled. He takes unnecessary sacks. He never plays on time. He has horrible body language. He blames teammates. But the biggest thing is—he’s just not that good.”

Such harsh commentary spread quickly, and it may have played a role in teams backing off.

Sanders Responds with Resilience

Despite the fall, Sanders remained composed in the public eye. Just hours before the draft, he posted on social media:
“I’m built for whatever today may bring.”

The Cleveland Browns, who hold the first pick of the second round, could be the team to give him that long-awaited phone call. With quarterback questions still lingering in Cleveland, Sanders could get his shot as early as tonight.

What’s Next for Shedeur Sanders?

The story isn’t over. If anything, this draft-day snub could ignite a fiery second act in Sanders’ career. Many greats—Tom Brady, Russell Wilson, Derek Carr—were overlooked on draft day, only to rewrite their narrative at the professional level. Sanders could join that list.

With the second and third rounds approaching, expect the spotlight to remain firmly on him. Will he rise with a chip on his shoulder, or will questions about his attitude and mechanics continue to haunt his NFL future?

One thing is certain: Shedeur Sanders’ fall has become the most talked-about moment of the 2025 NFL Draft so far—and Day 2 might just be his redemption chapter.