As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, some analysts — including FOX Sports draft expert Rob Rang — have started sliding Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders down their boards.
In his latest mock draft, Rang has Sanders falling to No. 21 overall. But it’s not the pick itself making headlines — it’s the reason behind it.
Rob Rang Sends Shedeur Sanders to Steelers
Rang joined FOX Sports host Dave Helman to discuss the selection.
Helman introduced the segment by acknowledging the divide on Sanders’ stock.
“What’s your rationale for a fall like this for Shedeur Sanders?” Helman asked.
“Just the perception that Shedeur Sanders is not the leader that a lot of teams are looking for, that he doesn’t have the elite arm strength that teams feel like is necessary. Basically … very similar argument as to why Kenny Pickett wound up falling all the way down to Pittsburgh years ago,” Rang began.
“Now, I know that is not a name that Steelers fans are going to be excited about me mentioning at this point, but that to me would be the argument — that the physical skill set is not elite.
“And if you believe, as I do, that one of the most important things that a quarterback brings to the field — along with accuracy and anticipation as a passer — are those leadership skills, then again, there’s gonna be some people who don’t like the ‘look at me and check out my watch’ and all that kinda stuff that Shedeur Sanders brings to the table.
“All that said, Shedeur Sanders is my, and has been the entire process, my No. 1 rated quarterback in this draft class. I love his decision-making at the point of attack, I love the fact that where he has gone, he’s won, and I just see accuracy, anticipation. I see two years now in a pro-style offense that, again, translates very nicely to the NFL.
“And of course, when you’re talking about the Pittsburgh Steelers in particular, you’re talking about a head coach in Mike Tomlin who has been able to manage some egos during his time as the Steelers’ head coach — and of course a team that made maybe the splashiest, most surprising move of the entire offseason with the big trade for DK Metcalf.
“So it’s not like you’re asking Shedeur Sanders to come into Pittsburgh in this scenario and be the savior. He’s got a heck of a team that he’d be drafted into,” Rang concluded.
PFSN’s Recent Mock Draft Sends Sanders to Giants
In contrast, the latest mock draft from PFSN’s Reese Decker projects Sanders as the No. 3 overall pick to the New York Giants.
Decker said, “The Giants’ front office somehow survived a brutal 2024 season, but their lifeboat is taking on water fast. General manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll are beyond desperate for a franchise quarterback. This is their last shot to get it right.
“The son of ‘Prime Time’ Deion Sanders, Shedeur has the traits and pedigree to be a franchise quarterback in the NFL—along with the personality to thrive in the Big Apple. He’s no stranger to the spotlight or lofty expectations. In fact, he craves it.
“Sanders has a live arm capable of layering throws with pinpoint accuracy. His strong, balanced lower body lets him fend off pressure and deliver precise off-platform throws. He’s comfortable operating within structure or improvising when needed. His pocket mobility, ability to extend plays with his legs, and toughness make him a natural fit for Big Blue.”
