Quarterback Shedeur Sanders has been one of the most talked-about names in the 2025 NFL Draft class, generating major buzz about where he’ll land. While he currently trails Cam Ward in some rankings, Sanders’ draft stock has been under a microscope following his standout 2024 season with Colorado.
His game tape shows flashes of big-time potential — but it’s also raised a few red flags. According to former NFL quarterback Shaun King, Sanders is a late first- or early second-round prospect at best, mainly due to one glaring issue.
Why Shaun King Has Shedeur Sanders Outside the Top 10
Sanders’ college career has been impressive. Between his time at Jackson State and Colorado, he’s consistently put up strong numbers, including four seasons with over 3,200 passing yards and at least 25 touchdown passes.
In 2024 alone, Sanders threw for 4,134 yards, 37 touchdowns, and completed 353 of 477 pass attempts — good for a 74% completion rate. Despite those stats, King told the “Ross Tucker Football Show” that Sanders isn’t a top-10 pick in his book.
“The one thing that I do is I simply evaluate the film. And I have a late first, early second-round grade on Shedeur,” King said.
King praised Sanders’ poise, toughness, and leadership under pressure — especially coming off a 4–8 season in 2023 and improving to 9-4 in 2024. But one key flaw stood out to him.
“You know why I don’t have a high-end first-round grade on him? He just has average arm talent,” King said.
“The problem with Shedeur is if you don't think he's a top ten pick, it's like you're hating. I have a late first, early second round grade on Shedeur.”@realshaunking gives his thoughts on Shedeur Sanders: pic.twitter.com/vufL43Re1d
— Ross Tucker Podcast (@RossTuckerPod) April 5, 2025
Where Shedeur Sanders Might Land in the 2025 NFL Draft
Sanders’ accuracy and touch have never been in question. But he does create unnecessary pressure in the pocket at times by drifting or fading during plays. While he still delivers with composure, King believes his arm talent isn’t polished enough to be considered elite.
The upside? He’ll have time to develop in the NFL. And he may not have to wait long to hear his name called.
There’s been buzz that the Cleveland Browns could take him at No. 2 overall, given their need for a franchise quarterback. The New York Giants, holding the No. 3 pick, are also in the conversation after signing Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston in free agency.
Other teams, like the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 6, have been connected to Sanders in various mock drafts.
Whether it’s April 24 (Day 1) or Arpil 25 (Day 2) in Green Bay, Wisc., one of these teams may take a shot on Sanders’ potential as their quarterback of the future.