Shedeur Sanders hasn’t even taken a snap at the 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl, but the noise surrounding him is deafening. The Colorado quarterback, widely projected as a top-five pick in this year’s NFL Draft, is no stranger to criticism.
Shedeur Sanders Finds Support From Deion Sanders Jr. Amidst Unnecessary Hate
Whether it’s accusations of nepotism, claims of being overhyped, or simply the intense scrutiny that follows a high-profile prospect, Shedeur’s name is constantly in the headlines. His older brother, Deion Sanders Jr., has had enough. When someone on social media pointed out the growing number of Shedeur haters, Sanders Jr. didn’t mince words, replying, “Naw, for real.”
Naw for real https://t.co/zUH4tbb5S4 pic.twitter.com/qcPaTXid6M
— Deion Sanders Jr (@DeionSandersJr) January 29, 2025
The hate isn’t a new phenomenon. Even Coach Prime himself addressed the issue on Shedeur’s podcast, questioning why his son was the only projected first-rounder facing such criticism. “First of all, why are you the only kid in the draft they hatin’ on? Why you the only one? You know why? Because they want you to slide to their team. It’s games,” the Buffs HC said.
Despite the negative online chatter, the Colorado quarterback has backed up the hype with elite production. The 2024 college football season saw him put up staggering numbers—4,134 passing yards, 37 touchdowns, and just ten interceptions while completing 74.0% of his throws.
He also added four rushing touchdowns, finishing with a 168.2 passer rating and a QBR of 75.5. His ability to command the field, make NFL-level throws, and extend plays has scouts buzzing, with speculation linking him to multiple quarterback-needy teams.
The Tennessee Titans currently hold the Number 1 overall pick and are expected to strongly consider Sanders, especially given Will Levis’ underwhelming performance in 2024. However, the Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, and New York Giants are also in the mix. Sanders himself is keeping a level head, stating, “I love it… but honestly, I’ve been doing a lot of thinking. What’s meant to happen is going to happen.”
If the Titans pull the trigger, Sanders could become the face of a franchise desperately in need of a spark. His arrival wouldn’t just elevate Tennessee’s on-field potential—it would also be a massive win for the franchise’s brand.