Shedeur Sanders has officially accepted the invitation and will attend the East-West Shrine Bowl at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Jan. 30. The college all-star game, held at the Cowboys’ practice facility in Frisco, Texas, is a platform for draft-eligible players aiming to boost their NFL aspirations.
It is a unique opportunity for Sanders, who lives in the Dallas area, to perform close to home and make an impression on scouts in a more intimate setting before he sets foot at the 2025 NFL Draft. However, his acceptance is not just a simple affair, as it has piqued curiosity across the football world.
Fans Raise Doubts on Shedeur Sanders’ Acceptance of Shrine Bowl Invitation
The Shrine Bowl is an established platform for late-round and Day 2 or Day 3 prospects, running annually since 1925, but top-tier players like Sanders have not appeared all that often. However, over the course of the last few years, the Shrine Bowl has seen increased exposure with names like Zay Flowers having participated in the college all-star game.
As the projected No. 2 pick in many mock drafts, Sanders’ decision has raised eyebrows. Adding to the intrigue, Sanders will also join his brother, Shilo, making it a family affair.
Showtime ⌚️
QB Shedeur Sanders (@ShedeurSanders) from @CUBuffsFootball has officially accepted his invite to the 100th East-West #ShrineBowl!#GoBuffs | #ShrineBowlWHOSNEXT 😎 pic.twitter.com/L4gNdOa5jj
— East-West Shrine Bowl (@ShrineBowl) November 20, 2024
Fans poured in their reactions about his decision as the news hit social media. Some see it as a calculated move to address concerns about his personality or work ethic, while others question whether it signals any hesitation about his draft stock.
Unsurprisingly, fans on social media have reacted quickly, with some trolling Sanders for what they see as an unconventional choice.
A fan mocked Sanders’ decision, writing, “What he need to go to a shrine game for Jerry jones already knows who he is. Just pull a Bronny James and wait for Dallas to draft u in the 3rd.”
What he need to go to a shrine game for Jerry jones already knows who he is . Just pull a Bronny James and wait for Dallas to draft u in the 3rd
— LastDakBeliever (@native_ace) November 20, 2024
Another raised the most pertinent question, “Why would a top 5 pick play in that game?”
Why would a top 5 pick play in that game
— Christian (@GreatWhite85) November 20, 2024
A doubter wrote, “Waste of time.”
waste of time
— azsportsnetwork (@AZSPORTSNETWORK) November 20, 2024
A similar voice interrogated, “Nothing against you guys, but why is a recruit this high entertaining playing in one of these games?”
Nothing against you guys, but why is a recruit this high entertaining playing in one of these games?
— FaKeGiAnTsNeWs (@FakeGiantsNews) November 20, 2024
A fan kept it straightforward, writing, “Don’t do it.”
Don’t do it.
— Dark Grind (@DarkGrinding) November 20, 2024
Another doubter noted, “Wonder why. Where is it played at?”
Wonder why. Where is it played at?
— Ryan (@ryanmcd92) November 20, 2024
Sanders’ play has been instrumental to Colorado’s surprising success this season. Completing 72.9% of his passes, he’s racked up 3,222 yards, 27 touchdowns, and just seven interceptions. Adding to his versatility, he’s rushed for four touchdowns, highlighting his dual-threat ability and potential. While his decision has stirred a debate, his undeniable love for the game continues to draw admiration.
His willingness to serve opportunities like the Shrine Bowl could work to his advantage, especially speaking volumes about his work ethic. It can provide diversity in preparation and visibility for him and his brother, making him an even more compelling prospect for top-tier teams and flipping the draft for good.