Some debates in football just never go away — especially when it comes to quarterback mechanics. One of the most talked-about in recent years has returned to the spotlight: should quarterbacks pat the ball before releasing it?
The latest focus of the debate is Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, a projected first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. During his pro day, Sanders was seen patting the ball before many of his throws, which quickly caught the attention of NFL players and fans online.
Shedeur Sanders’ Ball Pat Becomes NFL Debate Between Micah Parsons, Darius Slayton
New York Jets safety Andre Cisco was among the first to voice concerns, pointing out that patting the ball gives defenders a visual cue to break on the play. “Patting the ball is a dead giveaway,” he wrote, warning that habits like that could slow down a quarterback’s release and make throws more predictable at the pro level.
Not everyone agreed. Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton came to Sanders’ defense and resisted Cisco’s criticism.
“Tom Brady, literally the king of getting the ball out fast, patted the ball when he threw,” Slayton posted on X. “So actually no, patting the ball is not the difference.”
For Slayton, the criticism of Sanders was overblown—especially when one of the game’s greatest quarterbacks showed a similar habit.
But Cowboys star linebacker Micah Parsons wasn’t buying that argument.
“Comparing the greatest quarterback ever to Sanders is why I’ll never entertain a football conversation with you!! Like what are we doing here??” Parsons replied, clearly frustrated by the Brady comparison.
Parsons emphasized how critical timing is in the NFL and how even the slightest delay — like patting the ball — can lead to a sack or turnover rather than a completion.
That’s when Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill stepped in as mediator with a calm, six-word message: “Two adidas guys arguing for what!!!”
Two adidas guys arguing for what !!! https://t.co/MqeScWQoaD
— Ty Hill (@cheetah) April 6, 2025
“Y’all boys gotta chill, fr,” Hill later added.
That was all Hill needed to say to cool off the escalating debate. Without choosing a side, Hill reminded everyone to step back and not blow things out of proportion. His comment brought some humor and balance to what had become a fiery back-and-forth.
Whether Sanders’ ball pat becomes a genuine concern at the next level remains to be seen. For now, he’s staying focused on preparing for the 2025 NFL Draft — and letting others debate the details of his technique.