Some prospects at the 2025 NFL Draft, including Shedeur Sanders, Kyle McCord, and Tyler Warren became the targets of cruel prank calls during one of the most important moments of their lives.
Former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III was quick to call out the behavior, labeling it a reflection of deeper societal issues affecting how future generations view success, professionalism, and dignity.
Robert Griffin III Urges Society, Media to Reconsider the Impact of Prank Calls
In a passionate statement shared on social media, Griffin criticized the growing trend of sensationalism in media and entertainment.
“Sometimes pranks can be funny and I’m all about having a good time. But this wasn’t an episode of Punk’d that was harmless,” Griffin wrote. He emphasized that the timing of these prank calls, right before these players’ lives were set to change forever, made the jokes not just inappropriate, but damaging.
Shedeur Sanders, Tyler Warren, even Cooper DeJean from last year and any other player has been prank called during the biggest moment of their life during the NFL draft is disgusting to watch.
Sometimes pranks can be funny and I’m all about having a good time. But this wasn’t an…
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) April 28, 2025
Shedeur Sanders, recently drafted by the Cleveland Browns, and Tyler Warren, now with the Indianapolis Colts, were both victims of these cruel moments.
Warren, for instance, received a fake call from someone posing as the New York Jets’ general manager while the team was on the clock. The prank led him to believe he was about to be drafted seventh overall, only for reality to set in minutes later.
Griffin pointed out that these incidents symbolize a bigger problem. He argued that modern society, especially through its media consumption habits, is moving “further and further away from standards and morals toward no-holds-barred sensationalism.”
According to Griffin, the glorification of extreme behavior, substance abuse, explicit content, and disrespect on mainstream and digital platforms leaves a lasting impression on younger audiences, often encouraging them to chase virality at any cost.
“Our kids see what is celebrated in the media through content, what is acceptable and what is not,” Griffin stressed. He warned that such pranks aren’t isolated incidents but part of a broader cultural shift where professionalism, humility, and decorum are increasingly devalued.
Still, Griffin’s message wasn’t without hope. Acknowledging that mistakes are part of life, he called on media professionals and everyday people to strive for better standards.
“We can have fun without crossing that line,” he said. And when the line is crossed, he encouraged accountability and the willingness to apologize.
KEEP READING: Top 5 Highest-Ranked UDFAs From the 2025 NFL Draft
Griffin’s message resonates deeply in a world where going viral often overshadows personal dignity and respect.
As the NFL continues to evolve and shape the aspirations of millions of young fans and athletes, moments like these remind us that success should be celebrated with the dignity and honor it deserves, not overshadowed by harmful stunts chasing fleeting internet fame.
Griffin concluded his statement by calling on all of us to be better for the next generation, a simple but powerful message that deserves serious reflection.
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!
