Former NFL quarterback Matt Hasselbeck shared his candid thoughts on top draft prospect Shedeur Sanders during an appearance on FS1’s “The Herd with Colin Cowherd”.
Hasselbeck, a three-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl XL starter, offered a balanced evaluation of Sanders, highlighting his strengths and potential red flags that could impact his draft stock.
Matt Hasselbeck’s Take on Why Shedeur Sanders Is Such a Polarizing Talent
After an impressive collegiate career with a 74% completion rate in 2024 and over 14,000 passing yards in four seasons, Sanders has been widely projected as a first-round pick. However, Hasselbeck suggested that Sanders might not be the lock for a top-five selection that some expect.
“Listen, the 74% completion or whatever it was—a really high completion percentage—that doesn’t mean all that much to me,” Hasselbeck said. “Because he’s not a guy that threw a lot of balls away. Completion percentage is not really what I’m looking at.” He explained that Sanders’ reliance on quick throws and screens, often necessitated by Colorado’s shaky offensive line, may have inflated his numbers without fully showcasing his ability to operate in a pro-style offense.
Why Hasselbeck Believes Shedeur Sanders Offers a Mixed Bag as a Draft Prospect
Hasselbeck also addressed Sanders’ physical profile, noting that at 6’1″ and 212 pounds, he doesn’t fit the prototypical mold of an NFL franchise quarterback. “He’s not giving me Justin Herbert, Tom Brady, Manning 6’5″ cut-type vibes,” Hasselbeck remarked. While acknowledging that Sanders has the tools to succeed, he added that being an “outlier” in terms of size could make teams hesitant to invest in a top-five pick.
Despite these concerns, Hasselbeck praised Sanders’ competitiveness and leadership qualities. “I do love his competitiveness,” he said. “He’s got other intangibles that he brings to the table.” However, he also pointed out behavioral concerns that might give NFL teams pause. “Some of the taunting, not shaking hands, all the penalties, pushing a referee—some of that kind of stuff might give some people pause,” Hasselbeck noted.
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Hasselbeck predicted that while Sanders will likely have a successful NFL career, his draft position could be more volatile than anticipated. “I think he could drop a little bit on Day One,” he said. This assessment acknowledges the unpredictable nature of the draft process, where even highly touted prospects can slide due to perceived risks or team preferences.
What Hasselbeck’s Commentary Means for Shedeur Sanders
Sanders’ draft stock will ultimately depend on how teams weigh his production against his size and maturity concerns. His collegiate accolades—such as being named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2024 and setting multiple school records—demonstrate his ability to perform at a high level under pressure. However, NFL scouts will scrutinize whether his skills translate to the next level.
Despite these concerns, teams needing quarterback help that pick outside the top five, such as the New Orleans Saints or Pittsburgh Steelers, could still see Sanders as a valuable addition. His ability to thrive under duress and deliver accurate throws from the pocket remains an asset in today’s NFL.
Hasselbeck’s comments highlight a broader debate about what NFL teams value most in quarterback prospects. While physical traits like height and arm strength have traditionally been prioritized, intangibles such as leadership and resilience are becoming increasingly important. Sanders’ case exemplifies this shift: despite lacking elite size or athleticism, his poise and production have kept him in first-round conversations.
As draft day nears, NFL teams will wrestle with weighing Sanders’ undeniable talent against the concerns raised by analysts like Hasselbeck. The team that provides Sanders with the best support could reap long-term benefits.