The debate surrounding Shedeur Sanders’ draft stock is heating up as analysts and scouts offer differing evaluations. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently shared the mixed opinions he gathered from NFL executives.
“Before I walked in here, I texted with a half dozen or so high-level personnel people with teams. I asked them a simple question: Do you have a first-round grade on Shedeur Sanders? Four said no, more of a second-rounder. Two said yes, that he’s a mid-to-late first-round pick for them,” Fowler said.
This wide range of opinions has left many wondering where Sanders will land in the 2025 NFL Draft. While some view him as a first-round talent, others see him falling into the second or even third round. That makes his draft-day fate one of the most unpredictable storylines this year.
Uncertainty Atop NFL Draft With Shedeur Sanders, Abdul Carter
Despite polarizing evaluations, Sanders remains in the mix for an early selection. Fowler noted that the Cleveland Browns (No. 2 overall) and the New York Giants (No. 3) have shown interest. However, top pass rusher Abdul Carter is also gaining momentum as a potential top-three pick, further clouding the situation.
Adding to the debate, former NFL executive and current ESPN analyst Louis Riddick pointed out the subjective nature of quarterback scouting.
“You can get ten different scouts and get ten different opinions,” Riddick said. “There may be some scouts who have him watered down as a third- or fourth-rounder, like where Dak Prescott was drafted for the Dallas Cowboys. There’s a lot of varying opinions with him.”
New Orleans Saints, Las Vegas Raiders, Pittsburgh Steelers Could Target Sanders
While Sanders may not be a lock for the top 10, several teams could see value in him, depending on how the board falls. Fowler mentioned the New Orleans Saints (No. 9) as a potential landing spot if Sanders begins to slide. The Las Vegas Raiders (No. 6) are another option, depending on how they view their long-term outlook with Geno Smith at quarterback.
If Sanders does fall outside the top 10, Riddick suggested the Pittsburgh Steelers (No. 21) could get involved. Pittsburgh has done significant homework on quarterbacks and might be ready to strike if their guy is still on the board.
The conversation around Sanders highlights just how unpredictable the draft process can be. Some executives and scouts see him as a potential mid-to-late first-rounder. Others wouldn’t be shocked to see him drop into Day 2. With just weeks until the draft, teams will continue to study his film, evaluate his upside, and decide whether he has what it takes to become a franchise QB in today’s NFL.