At one point, Trey Sanders was the No. 1 running back in the country, a five-star recruit from the class of 2019 with the kind of college-ready build and agility that had fans and analysts projecting stardom.
But after a journey marked by injuries, perseverance, and flashes of greatness, the former TCU and Alabama running back went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft. Still, he boasts praise from one of the sport’s biggest names as he attempts to make the NFL.
Despite Being Undrafted, Trey Sanders Boasts Powerful Admirers
Colorado head coach Deion Sanders has always kept it real. When Trey Sanders went down during a game against Colorado in 2023, Coach Prime walked out to the injured running back, not just as a coach but as someone who once saw his potential up close.
Deion Sanders revealed what he told TCU RB Trey Sanders during the injury timeout👀
“I walked over to him because he was a kid that wanted to come here. The reason I didn’t take him was because he sustained some significant injuries… But I still had love for the kid because he… pic.twitter.com/xi2DDgvtTy
— On3 (@On3sports) September 7, 2023
Despite not bringing him to Boulder, Sanders still believed in the younger Sanders’ drive, and his last name didn’t hurt either.
“His last name’s Sanders, first of all, and he was the No. 2 on offense,” Deion joked.
Trey Sanders began his career at Alabama, where high expectations were met with cruel timing. Multiple injuries, including a serious car accident, kept him from fully showing his potential in Tuscaloosa.
After transferring to TCU, he finally got a chance to shine in 2023.
In the season opener against Colorado, he scored three rushing touchdowns, showing a glimpse of the powerful, elusive back he once was projected to be.
He finished that season with 176 rushing yards and six touchdowns, ranking second on TCU’s roster in scores. Though not a feature back, he contributed in key games, including a season-high 48 yards and a touchdown against Houston.
He also showed versatility with five receptions and special teams play, proving he could be a well-rounded contributor in the right system.
Despite the hard-fought journey, NFL teams ultimately passed on Trey Sanders. His injuries, limited collegiate production, and inconsistent carries likely raised questions for scouts. Still, his resilience and raw talent haven’t gone unnoticed, and his journey may not be over.
KEEP READING: Coach Prime Adds Former 5-Star WR Hykeem Williams to Colorado Football Through Transfer Portal
Deion Sanders once believed in Trey’s potential to be dominant. Now it’s up to Trey to find a team to give him a chance to prove that belief right.
The draft may not have been the dream ending for Trey Sanders, but the story isn’t finished.
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