No one was more shocked than NFL analyst Field Yates by Shedeur Sanders’ unexpected turn in the 2025 NFL Draft. Sanders, previously considered a possible early first or early second-round selection, unexpectedly entered Day 3, setting off a chain of events in the sports world.
Yates’ remarks and increasing fan annoyance have highlighted the Colorado quarterback’s baffling decline.
Field Yates Questions NFL Teams After Shedeur Sanders’ Stunning Draft Fall
When Sanders’ name wasn’t called through the first two days of the selection, eyebrows were raised, and Yates didn’t hold back his confusion. Speaking on ESPN, Yates said, “I am truly surprised by why the situation has gotten to the point we are now in.”
Yates said there was little reason why Sanders should still be available this late, ranking him as the 16th-best player on his draft board. Yates felt that Sanders’ resume spoke for itself, highlighting his remarkable stats, particularly his leadership among FBS quarterbacks in completions under little pressure.
He was more than just a catchy name throughout his college career. He was a reliable and successful player who represented Colorado and Jackson State well.
Despite this, five quarterbacks, including Jaxson Dart and Tyler Shough, were picked before Sanders. This fuelled rumors that selection boards were affected by more than just football skills.
Intangibles, Public Image, or Something Else?
Yates suggested that Sanders’ off-field presence might have raised concerns for some NFL teams. “It only leads me to believe that maybe some teams are less comfortable with some of the stuff that comes in the intangibles department for Sanders,” he said.
It’s also possible that Deion Sanders’ well-known dual roles as coach and father increased the details. Teams could fear distractions, media attention, or unusual expectations. Nevertheless, Yates and others questioned if these issues warranted a pass on one of the class’s best quarterbacks.
Outrage Across the NFL Community
Yates wasn’t the only one who was confused. Mel Kiper Jr. and Booger McFarland, among other ESPN figures, were similarly vocal.
“Disgusting,” Kiper said, while McFarland maintained that Sanders was “the best pure passer in this draft.” Even Louis Riddick seemed taken aback and acknowledged that he was at a loss for words.
The collective annoyance of top analysts implies that Sanders’ downfall isn’t due to skill but rather perception, which many believe is an unfair narrative.
Shedeur and Deion Sanders Respond
Amidst the chaos, Sanders and his family maintained composure. While he maintained his composure, Deion Sanders was emotional but remained encouraging. Sanders hinted that he would use this incident as motivation as he prepared to enter the NFL. “It just adds fuel to the fire,” he stated.
Sanders is not allowing the fall to define who he is. Indeed, it could be the beginning of a tale where he proves numerous teams incorrect.
Whoever selects Sanders in the third draft round could get one of the year’s greatest deals.
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