Quick Read
- Shedeur Sanders, Colorado QB, remains undrafted after three rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft.
- The final day of the draft, featuring Rounds 4-7, begins Saturday at 12 p.m. ET.
- Top potential landing spots include the Raiders, Eagles, Cowboys, and Rams.
- Sanders’ draft slide could reduce pressure to start immediately, aiding his development.
- Teams may view Sanders as a high-value backup or developmental quarterback.
Shedeur Sanders’ Draft Slide: What Happened?
Shedeur Sanders, the highly touted quarterback from Colorado and son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, entered the 2025 NFL Draft with significant expectations. Once projected as a top-five pick, Sanders has surprisingly fallen through the first three rounds. Despite his confidence and claims of being the best quarterback in the draft class, his name has yet to be called.
The reasons for this draft slide are varied. Analysts have pointed to concerns about his consistency as a passer, his performance under pressure, and the overall depth of the quarterback class in 2025. Nevertheless, Sanders remains a talented prospect with potential to develop into a franchise quarterback.
Day 3: A Second Chance for Sanders
Day 3 of the NFL Draft, which includes Rounds 4-7, represents a fresh opportunity for teams to take a chance on Sanders. At this stage, the focus often shifts to high-upside players who may require time to develop. Sanders fits this mold, and several teams could see value in selecting him as a developmental quarterback or a high-quality backup.
Top Potential Landing Spots for Shedeur Sanders
1. Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders are an intriguing option for Sanders. With Geno Smith as their current starter and Tom Brady as a minority owner, the team could provide a stable environment for Sanders to grow. Smith, now 34, is on a short-term contract, making Sanders a potential long-term solution. Additionally, the Raiders have a history of taking risks on talented players with something to prove.
2. Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles, fresh off a Super Bowl victory, are not in immediate need of a starting quarterback, with Jalen Hurts firmly entrenched in that role. However, the team has a history of investing in backup quarterbacks who can develop into valuable assets. If Sanders falls to the sixth or seventh round, Philadelphia could see him as a low-risk, high-reward option.
3. Dallas Cowboys
Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys, has never shied away from bold moves. With Dak Prescott under contract until 2028, Sanders would not face immediate pressure to start. However, his selection could provide the Cowboys with a talented backup and a potential successor to Prescott. Additionally, the connection to Deion Sanders, a former Cowboys star, adds an interesting narrative.
4. Los Angeles Rams
The Rams are another team that could benefit from drafting Sanders. With Matthew Stafford nearing the end of his career, Los Angeles needs to start planning for the future. Sean McVay’s offensive system could provide Sanders with the coaching and structure needed to succeed. The Rams have previously taken chances on quarterbacks with potential, making them a logical fit.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers have a glaring need at quarterback, but they have passed on Sanders multiple times already. If they decide to take a chance on him in the later rounds, Sanders could develop into a long-term solution for the team. However, Pittsburgh’s limited draft capital may complicate this scenario.
6. Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals are not in desperate need of a quarterback, with Kyler Murray and Jacoby Brissett on the roster. However, Murray’s future is uncertain, and the team could view Sanders as a developmental prospect who could eventually compete for the starting role.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars
Trevor Lawrence is the unquestioned starter in Jacksonville, but his injury history makes a reliable backup essential. Sanders could serve as a high-upside insurance policy, providing depth to a team with playoff aspirations. His connection with Travis Hunter, a new addition to the Jaguars, could also be a factor.
8. Indianapolis Colts
The Colts are in the midst of a quarterback competition between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones. Adding Sanders to the mix could give the team another option with a different skill set. His pocket-passing ability could complement the more mobile Richardson, providing the Colts with flexibility at the position.
What’s Next for Sanders?
While falling to Day 3 is undoubtedly disappointing for Sanders, it could ultimately work in his favor. Being selected in the later rounds often comes with reduced expectations, allowing players more time to develop without the pressure of being an immediate starter. For Sanders, this could be an opportunity to refine his skills and prove his doubters wrong.
As the final rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft unfold, all eyes will be on where Shedeur Sanders lands. Whether he becomes a backup, a developmental project, or a future starter, his journey is far from over.
Shedeur Sanders’ draft slide has been one of the most surprising storylines of the 2025 NFL Draft. However, the final day offers a chance for redemption. Teams like the Raiders, Eagles, and Cowboys could provide him with the right environment to grow and succeed. Regardless of where he lands, Sanders has the talent and determination to make an impact in the NFL.