One of the main talking points of the 2025 NFL Draft, which had some unexpected developments, was that highly-tipped quarterback Shedeur Sanders was not chosen in the first round.
Comedian Tony Rock has now made a fairly shocking claim: ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith texted his brother Chris Rock to place the responsibility for Shedeur’s draft slip directly on his father, Colorado coach Deion Sanders. Let’s examine this unexpected turn of events and the possible justification for such a grave charge.
Tony Rock Claims Stephen A. Smith Believes NFL Coaches Feared Deion Sanders, Leading to Shedeur Sanders’ Draft Slide
During an appearance on the “Art of Dialogue” podcast, Tony Rock recently made a shocking revelation about the aftermath of the NFL Draft.
Rock claims that Stephen A. Smith texted his brother, Chris Rock, expressing his contentious and straightforward thoughts on why Shedeur Sanders, a quarterback many predicted would be selected in the first round, missed the opening night.
According to Tony Rock, Smith’s communication implied that NFL coaches were “scared” of Deion Sanders and that this fear was a significant factor in Shedeur’s draft status decline.
Tony Rock reveals Stephen A. Smith texted his brother Chris Rock claiming Shedeur Sanders wasn’t drafted in the 1st round of the NFL Draft because NFL head coaches feared Deion Sanders would be hired to replace them if they failed to win the Super Bowl.
(🎥 Live From The Green… pic.twitter.com/FM8KS4V44e
— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) May 5, 2025
Although the precise content of the alleged text was not made public, it is implied that NFL teams may have been reluctant to select Shedeur because they were worried about handling the vocal and influential Deion Sanders.
According to this viewpoint, coaches and front offices may have been concerned about possible influence, control concerns, or the special dynamic of selecting the son of a well-known and vocal football personality.
Potential Reasons Behind the ‘Fear Factor’ Theory
Stephen A. Smith is well-known for his fervent beliefs and frequently candid commentary about the sports industry. He may have believed that NFL coaches feared Deion Sanders for several reasons.
Given the league’s hierarchical structure, some NFL teams may find it challenging to deal with Deion’s exaggerated personality, direct and frequently unfiltered communication style, and fervent support for his boys and his program at Colorado.
Additionally, Deion Sanders has been outspoken about his belief that his sons should be respected and drafted, which some companies may have viewed as complicating or adding pressure to the decision-making process.
Teams may be cautious of the additional media attention and scrutiny that picking Shedeur may bring, and the special spotlight that surrounds the Sanders family and the Colorado program may also play a role.
Shedeur Sanders’ Draft Outcome and Future Prospects
Despite the first-round snub and the claimed “fear factor,” Shedeur Sanders was eventually taken in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos.
This outcome nonetheless constitutes a great success and a testament to his talent and promise as a quarterback. He will now have the chance to establish his reputation in the league and demonstrate his value at the professional level.
KEEP READING: Shedeur Sanders Lands No. 12 Jersey With Browns
Based on this alleged text conversation, it is unclear if NFL coaches were actually “scared” of Deion Sanders.
Shedeur’s selection in the fifth round suggests that his skill eventually surpassed whatever possible reservations clubs may have had. His NFL career will be scrutinized, and his performance will ultimately determine whether he succeeds or fails.
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