The debate surrounding quarterback Shedeur Sanders rages on. While some evaluators focus on his alleged attitude problem, more empirical thinkers are looking at his measurable numbers, physical traits, tools, and, most importantly, the young man’s football smarts and leadership.
Shedeur Sanders’s Most Important Quality Is His Football Smarts
Jordan Schultz at Fox Sports quoted a team executive who told him, “One of the keys for any young quarterback is being able to define your game. And I’m not just talking about having a strong arm or being a leader. I’m talking about knowing where the pressure’s coming from on third down, knowing who’s hot, and beating a linebacker or edge rusher to the corner if needed. That’s where Shedeur excels.”
The executive goes on to tell Schultz, “His football background helps him tremendously. He feels the pocket well. He’s accurate, which might be the most important trait for any QB, and he’s authentic. He’s not trying to be anyone else. I love that in a quarterback.”
Many folks are focused on the hype and attention that Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders and his son can draw just by being confident.
For his part, the younger Sanders seems up to the challenge. At a recent press conference, he told reporters, “If you’re not trying to change the franchise and culture, don’t get me.”
Apparently, some evaluators see that as being cocky, while others see it as confident and self-assured. But the tangible aspects — what makes up his game — are what truly matter.
The Colorado QB has been described as a pocket passer who doesn’t have a rocket arm. Not to unfairly compare Sanders to all-time greats, but neither Joe Montana nor Tom Brady had howitzers for arms. Accuracy, decision-making, pocket presence, and leadership can go a long way.
As the executive alludes to, Sanders’ ability to read defenses and throw the ball where the receiver will be open is far more important than what he may say in a pre-draft meeting. His ability to control the pocket and adjust to blitzes outweighs whether an evaluator likes his body language or posture at a press conference.
Sanders is expected to meet with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Las Vegas Raiders in the coming days. With the draft less than two weeks away, his landing spot will likely be determined by what general managers and coaches see on his film — not what they hear through internet memes.