Introduction
Shedeur Sanders, son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, has become one of the most talked-about prospects in college football. Having established a strong brand as a quarterback for Jackson State University, expectations for his transition to the NFL have been high. However, he faced hurdles that kept him from being drafted. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this, including performance, competition, and other relevant factors.
Performance Metrics
When considering a player’s draft stock, performance metrics play a crucial role. Shedeur Sanders had impressive statistics during his college career:
- Completion Percentage: 66.3%
- Passing Yards: 7,000+ yards
- Touchdowns: 70
- Interceptions: 14
Despite these numbers, several analysts pointed out inconsistencies in his performance in high-pressure games. His performance against higher-ranked opponents did not inspire confidence, and scouts were left wanting more. The disparity in competition level in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) compared to Power Five conferences also raised eyebrows.
Competition and Draft Expectations
The 2023 NFL Draft was packed with talented quarterbacks:
- Caleb Williams (USC)
- Drake Maye (North Carolina)
- Quinn Ewers (Texas)
- Michael Penix Jr. (Washington)
These players not only displayed standout performances throughout their college careers but also participated in major bowl games and the NFL Combine. The depth of talent in this draft class meant that teams were more selective, and Sanders’ stock fell as teams prioritized immediately impactful players with more extensive resumes.
Football IQ and Decision-Making
A critical factor for any quarterback’s success is their football IQ and decision-making abilities. During his time at Jackson State, Shedeur showed flashes of brilliance.
- Strong pocket presence
- Ability to read defenses
- Decent improvisation skills
However, there were moments where he relied on his athleticism over disciplined decision-making. In high-stakes scenarios, this inconsistency became evident, leading scouts to question whether he could handle the complexity of NFL defenses.
Scouting Reports and Team Needs
Scouting reports shed further light on Sanders’ potential challenges at the NFL level. Analysts noted that while he has a solid arm and playmaking ability, he often struggled with touch passes and deep accuracy. As a result, several teams opted for quarterbacks who fit their immediate needs better. For example:
- Teams looking for dual-threat QBs gravitated toward someone like Anthony Richardson.
- Teams with established starters sought developmental quarterbacks instead.
- Franchises were more inclined towards prospects from larger programs, viewing that as a safer bet.
This trend left Sanders on the outside looking in, as teams filled their quarterback spots with alternative options.
Brand and Media Influence
In today’s digital world, a player’s brand can influence their draft prospects. Shedeur, who is also known for his presence on social media, drew significant media attention during his college tenure. However, some franchises view extensive media exposure as a distraction. In Shedeur’s case, this could have contributed to a perception where concerns outweighed the excitement generated by his brand.
Conclusion
While Shedeur Sanders has undeniable talent, several factors culminated in his absence from the 2023 NFL draft. Performance inconsistency, fierce competition, decision-making issues, and possible brand concerns all played a role in how NFL teams evaluated him. As he continues his football journey, it remains to be seen how he will adjust and improve to secure a spot in the professional league in the future.
