Shedeur Sanders being picked for the Pro Bowl as a replacement quarterback was bound to get people talking. After all, he’s a rookie fifth-round pick.
The Pro Bowl often faces criticism these days, and this choice only added to it. This time, New York Giants offensive lineman Jermaine Eluemunor openly questioned the NFL‘s decision.
Jermaine Eluemunor Questions Shedeur Sanders’ Selection
Eluemunor explained on social media that his issue was not personal. He was more concerned about players he felt were left out out.
Eluemunor wrote on X that he had nothing against Sanders, but he also wondered why Cam Ward was not picked instead.
He also brought up Jaxson Dart, saying both quarterbacks had strong seasons and deserved serious consideration. His message was casual but clear: the decision did not make sense to him.
Like I said no hate but how’s Cam Ward not the replacement ? lol both him and dart went off this season
— Jermaine Eluemunor (@JEluemunor) January 26, 2026
His comment struck a chord because many fans were already saying the same thing. The Pro Bowl is meant to showcase the best players, and Sanders’ stats do not stand out as elite.
How Shedeur Sanders Ended Up in the Pro Bowl
Sanders was chosen as a replacement after Drake Maye led the New England Patriots to the Super Bowl with their AFC Championship Game victory over the Denver Broncos, which opened up a spot on the AFC roster.
The original picks were Josh Allen, Justin Herbert, and Maye. When Maye could not play, the league picked Sanders.
The Browns rookie had a 3-4 record as a starter, completing 56.6 percent of his passes for 1,400 yards with a 7:10 TD:INT. He had a memorable first win against the Raiders, but his efficiency dropped later in the season.
KEEP READING: 2026 7-Round NFL Mock Draft: Jets and Dolphins Select QBs of the Future, While 5 WRs Go in Round 1
Over the last eight weeks of the season, he had one of the lowest completion rates in the league and led the NFL in interceptions.
Even so, context is important. Sanders faced pressure on more than half of his dropbacks, the highest rate in the league, even though he did not face many blitzes. Cleveland’s offense made things harder for him.
Why Cam Ward and Jaxson Dart Have Support
Eluemunor’s main point is about merit. Ward and Dart both had strong seasons, consistently helping their teams.
Many players and fans believe that kind of performance should count more than a big name or a good story.
Sanders’ last name matters, for better or worse. As Deion Sanders’ son, he has been in the spotlight more than most rookies.
That attention can make his achievements seem bigger, but it can also lead to more criticism when people think he has not earned the praise.
