As Dan Orlovsky at ESPN joined the ranks of those reconsidering the prospects of Shedeur Sanders’ prospects, the judgmental NFL analyst became a converted fan once again. Orlovsky initially doubted Sanders’ style of play, which was predicated upon ball security techniques such as the ever-controversial ball pat. ESPN’s own Orlovsky showcased a much-changed perspective, praising Shedeur’s poise, mechanics, and position command.
From Doubt to Belief: ESPN Analyst Flips Script on Shedeur Sanders’ Draft Outlook
Early Concerns Over Ball Security and Timing
When Shedeur Sanders’ technique first gained national limelight, especially how he pats the ball before throwing it, Orlovsky was among several names questioning whether that would truly hold up in the NFL given the greater aggression and speed of the league. Many critics felt he was a delay-the-clock in real-time in the NFL, which could cost a guy his head. Orlovsky echoed those doubts, saying it could again create doubts about Sanders’ timing mechanism.
Changed Tune After Film Review and Pro Day
However, following the last Sanders Pro Day and much deeper film evaluation, Orlovsky’s view flipped. Speaking on the ESPN NFL broadcast, he credited Sanders with being “in total control” of the offense, making throws with the accuracy one might expect from an elite-level prospect. Rather than a liability, Orlovsky now considers the ball-patting a part of Sanders’ rhythm — controlled and confident mechanics instead of erratic habits learned through gameplay.
NFL Readiness Now in Focus
With Orlovsky joining an ever-growing list of Sanders’ supporters, the quarterback’s stock appears to be calming right before the 2025 NFL Draft. What once looked like a red flag now seems more like a quirk gone awry. As far as Orlovsky is concerned, Sanders plays “on schedule, on time,” and his grasp of NFL concepts is ahead of many of his contemporaries. The narrative has turned — and so too have Sanders’ prospects.
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