As NFL Draft Day 2 begins, Shedeur Sanders unexpectedly remains on the board after being passed over throughout Round 1 despite a last-minute workout with the Giants; they selected Abdul Carter at pick 3 and later opted for Mississippi’s Jaxson Dart at pick 25. Sanders brings a surgical passing game from Colorado with impressive accuracy metrics, while Alabama’s Jalen Milroe offers raw dual-threat capabilities that have drawn comparisons to athletic quarterback legends.
The tale of the tape reveals striking contrasts between these signal callers. Sanders, the polished pocket passer with elite processing skills but facing questions about NFL adaptability, stands opposite Milroe, the dynamic athlete with jaw-dropping running ability and cannon arm strength. Both now await their fate on Day 2.
Which Quarterback out of Shedeur Sanders and Jalen Milroe Has the Edge on Paper?
Sanders’ career 70.1% completion percentage towers over Milroe’s 64.3% while his 14,347 career passing yards more than double Milroe’s 6,016. Sanders posted a remarkable 74.0% completion rate in 2024, setting Colorado single-season records for yards and touchdowns.
Milroe counters with explosive dual-threat capabilities. While throwing for 45 career touchdowns, he added 33 rushing scores, of which 20 were in 2024 alone. His 726 rushing yards last season highlight a Cam Newton-esque ground game that maybe Sanders can’t match.
Sanders shined with a stellar 90.9 PFF grade in 2024 and converted an impressive 81.8% of his adjusted attempts. He particularly excelled in clutch third-and-long situations. His one glaring weakness, a tendency to hold the ball too long, led to a high sack rate despite possessing quick-release mechanics.
Milroe’s inconsistency shows in his below-average 59.46% Weighted On-Target Percentage. While his mechanics remain raw, his extraordinary athleticism produced game-changing performances. Against LSU, he showcased his ceiling with a dominant 185-yard, 4 4-touchdown rushing explosion that few quarterbacks could replicate.
NFL Readiness and Development Trajectories
Sanders projects as the more NFL-ready prospect with advanced processing and accuracy. Scouts view him as having a high floor but a potentially limited ceiling comparable to a more accurate Mac Jones. His pre-snap recognition should translate immediately to West Coast offenses.
Milroe represents the classic high-ceiling, low-floor quarterback prospect. His raw athletic ability and arm strength make him an intriguing developmental project for teams with run-heavy schemes like Baltimore or Atlanta.
Sanders’ first-round slide reflects growing concerns about scheme adaptability. Despite being the third highest player on Daniel Jeremiah’s board, teams prioritized dual-threat quarterbacks over Sanders’ pocket passing style. His tendency to hold the ball too long raised red flags for NFL decision makers.
Now projected for early second round (Cleveland at No. 33/36, New Orleans at No. 41) consideration, Sanders remains defiant. Calling the first round snub “fuel to the fire,” he vowed to “change the franchise’s fate” that drafted him.
KEEP READING: Top 300 Prospects — Get Your Free Printable 2025 NFL Draft Big Board
The final verdict depends on team philosophy, with Day 2 as a critical test. Sanders offers immediate passing proficiency with scheme limitations, while Milroe provides impressive physical traits requiring development patience. Both could succeed in tailored systems, Sanders through precision and processing, and Milroe through athleticism and big-play potential.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
