Shedeur Sanders Remains Undrafted After First Three Rounds of 2025 NFL Draft

After the first three rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft, Shedeur Sanders was not selected. In a surprising twist during the 2025 NFL Draft, Shedeur Sanders, the talented quarterback from Colorado and son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, remains undrafted after the first three rounds. Many analysts and fans had predicted that Sanders would be selected on Day 1 or early on Day 2, but as the dust settles after three rounds, his name has yet to be called.
Shedeur Sanders had impressive credentials when he entered the 2025 draft. He showed remarkable arm talent, high football IQ, and strong leadership while playing for his father at the University of Colorado. In his final collegiate season, Sanders threw for over 4,000 yards with 35 touchdowns and only seven interceptions, completing 69% of his passes. His poise in the pocket, mobility, and ability to extend plays under pressure earned him respect throughout the college football world.
Despite his on-field accomplishments, Sanders faced skepticism from NFL scouts about his transition to the professional level. Concerns included whether his statistics were inflated by Colorado's pass-heavy system and his occasional tendency to hold onto the ball for too long and take unnecessary sacks. Furthermore, the intense spotlight and media attention surrounding the Sanders family may have made some NFL front offices cautious.
Nevertheless, few anticipated Sanders's slide this far. Numerous mock drafts had him projected as a late first- or second-round pick going into the draft. Teams like the New Orleans Saints, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Denver Broncos were rumored to have interest. However, as quarterbacks such as Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, J.J. McCarthy, and Michael Penix Jr. flew off the board, Sanders remained waiting.
The quarterback class this year has been exceptionally deep, which might have contributed to Sanders’ unexpected fall. Sanders was put in a difficult position because teams gave priority to prospects they thought were more "pro-ready" or had higher ceilings. Another possible factor is the uncertainty about his willingness to sit and develop behind a veteran quarterback. Some reports indicated Sanders preferred to be a starter early in his NFL career, and that might have deterred teams looking for a developmental project.
As the fourth round looms, the situation becomes more complex for Sanders. His fall will undoubtedly be a headline on Day 3 of the draft. However, it also presents an opportunity. Teams that may have considered him a luxury pick in earlier rounds could now view him as a bargain. The pressure is lower for fourth-rounders compared to first- or second-round picks, allowing Sanders to grow without immediate expectations.
Moreover, Shedeur’s character and work ethic have never been in question. Teammates and coaches consistently praise his leadership, competitiveness, and drive to improve. Those intangible qualities might now become his greatest assets as he navigates the challenging path ahead.
Interestingly, Deion Sanders had previously suggested that his son would not enter the NFL unless the situation was ideal. However, with Shedeur officially declaring for the draft, the expectation was that he was ready to embrace any opportunity. It remains to be seen how the Sanders family will react publicly to this unexpected turn of events, but one thing is certain — Shedeur’s resolve will be tested like never before.
There are still some potential landing spots. The Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, Minnesota Vikings, and Las Vegas Raiders are just a few of the NFL's quarterback-heavy teams. Sanders’ skill set — quick decision-making, ability to read defenses, and calmness under pressure — could thrive in the right offensive system. If he lands with a coaching staff willing to invest in his development, Sanders still has the tools to become a starting NFL quarterback.
The 2025 NFL Draft has already proven that it is full of surprises. Although Shedeur Sanders may perceive it as a setback, the past has demonstrated that draft position is not always indicative of future success. Players like Russell Wilson, Dak Prescott, and Kirk Cousins were all selected in later rounds and went on to become franchise quarterbacks.
Shedeur Sanders' journey to the NFL has taken an unexpected detour, but it is far from over. The coming rounds will be crucial for his future, and wherever he lands, he will carry with him not just the expectations of being "Coach Prime’s" son, but also the determination to carve out his own legacy.
One thing is abundantly clear as the NFL community closely watches: Shedeur Sanders' story is just beginning.