Shedeur Sanders Goes Undrafted in Round 1, Eyes Redemption on Day 2 of NFL Draft

Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, one of the most polarizing and high-profile prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft, surprisingly went undrafted during the first round on Thursday night. Despite a record-setting college career, Sanders must now wait until Day 2 to learn where his professional journey will begin.

Known for his elite 71.8% career completion rate—the highest in FBS history—and his confident demeanor, Sanders was projected by many as a potential first-round pick. However, team after team passed on him, with the Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and Pittsburgh Steelers all choosing other positions or quarterbacks.

The New York Giants even traded back into the first round to select quarterback Jaxson Dart instead of Sanders, adding to the unexpected snubs.

Reacting in a video posted on social media after the first round ended, Sanders remained optimistic. “We all didn’t expect this, of course,” he told a gathering of friends and family in Texas. “But with God, anything’s possible. This didn’t happen for no reason. It’s fuel to the fire.”

Sanders declined the NFL’s invitation to attend the draft in Green Bay, choosing instead to stay close to home with loved ones. On X earlier that day, he posted, “I’m built for whatever today may bring,” capturing his mindset ahead of the disappointment.

While many factors could have contributed to his slide—ranging from his off-field brand to his outspoken nature—Sanders made it clear throughout the draft process that he expects to lead and transform any NFL franchise that takes a chance on him.

“If you ain’t trying to change the franchise or the culture, don’t pick me,” he said at the scouting combine. “We went from Jackson State to Colorado and changed two programs back to back. You don’t think I could do it again?”

With the Browns holding the first pick of the second round (No. 33) and another at No. 36, Sanders may not have to wait long on Friday night. Other interested teams could include the Saints at No. 40. Comparisons have already begun between Sanders and past quarterbacks who fell to Day 2, like Will Levis in 2023 and Geno Smith in 2013—both of whom eventually found their footing in the league.

Though the first round didn’t go as planned, Shedeur Sanders remains confident and ready to prove doubters wrong. As the draft resumes, all eyes will be on what happens next.