Cris Carter, whose name is enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, now makes headlines after vehemently criticizing Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders on account of his questionable draft decision.
He says that perhaps Sanders could even have fumbled potential earnings of $30 to $50 million were he to stay in college and warns against blaming the NFL for conspiracy, as it has neither any grounding in fact nor is it an injury.
Cris Carter Rips Shedeur Sanders for Costly Draft Gamble
Carter was very frank on the subject of Sanders’ draft stock, as well as the potential financial consequences of going back to school. The heart-stopping proclamation that has gone way, way around the world now via social media is about how there is no conspiracy in the NFL; there is poor decision-making by Sanders and his camp.
“They taught him a great lesson,” Carter said.
“They taught him a great lesson.”
NFL Hall of Famer Cris Carter goes off on Shedeur Sanders for throwing away at least $30 to $50 million in the NFL Draft, and makes it clear he doesn’t believe the NFL colluded against him.
( Fully Loaded/YouTube) pic.twitter.com/s5qQDncp0S
— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) April 29, 2025
Carter makes that statement in reference to the video that was shared by The Art of Dialogue on X. He went on to explain how NFL executives made their evaluations based on talent and business, not personal bias. According to Carter, Sanders’ reduction in anticipated draft value is due to the realities of markets, not hidden agendas.
By sacrificing a chance in the 2024 NFL Draft, Shedeur Sanders has lost what might have been a high pick and guaranteed contract with it. Some analysts and former players, including Carter, are estimating the decision might cost Sanders $30-$50 million in earnings that he would have otherwise enjoyed.
While one might think returning to college was a ploy to enhance his viability, Carter argues it may have accomplished just the opposite.
As Carter explained, this view of a unified conspiracy against Shedeur Sanders is wrong: The NFL is merely employing business principles based on Sanders. Actually, Sanders could be at risk of alienating that very system he hopes to get into come 2025 by insinuating that there is some malicious conspiracy at work.
There is a requirement for accountability, Carter stressed, not only regarding considerations about NFL attitude but also for establishing trust with scouts and executives who could weigh the candidate’s maturity and self-awareness.
KEEP READING: Analyst Chris Simms Slams NFL for Letting Shedeur Sanders Prank Happen
The Sanders controversy is a great lesson for college athletes going to the pros. In this gray space where NIL deals, branding, and draft strategy collide, the long-term impact trumps whatever is fashionable in the short run. Carter’s take is also a more sobering reminder: The NFL won’t wait; it’s all about timing.
To athletes like Sanders, each and every season matters, in terms of not only development but also marketability and potential earnings. Decisions made in the spotlight are permanent, and the business of football can be both unforgiving and illuminating.
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