Shedeur Sanders (Photo By Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images)
The first round of the 2025 NFL Draft came and went Thursday night in Green Bay, and while 32 college stars saw their NFL dreams kick off, Shedeur Sanders was left watching from the sidelines. The former Colorado quarterback, once projected as a potential top-five pick, didn’t hear his name called. And it wasn’t just about his performance on the field.

For many fans, Sanders’ absence from the first round felt like a surprise. His talent is undeniable, and some draft boards had him pegged as a franchise QB in the making. But behind the scenes, NFL teams saw more than highlight reels and stats. A deeper concern may have driven the hesitation that left Sanders waiting for Day 2.

Attitude, Not Ability

Shedeur Sanders (Photo via Imagn Images)
According to New York Post reporter Ryan Dunleavy, the slide wasn’t just about tape.

“Sanders’ slip is attributable to both flaws in his game and the brash attitude he displayed during the pre-draft process,” Dunleavy reported. That second part- the attitude- seems to have hit a nerve with teams evaluating long-term leadership potential at quarterback.

One assistant coach, speaking to NFL Network, didn’t hold back. He described Sanders’ formal interview as “the worst… I’ve ever been in in my life,” and labeled the young QB as “entitled.” Those are strong words in a league where character, poise, and locker-room fit can sometimes weigh as heavily as arm strength or footwork.

Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports added more context, noting that most franchises had a second-round grade on Sanders. That matches the decisions made by quarterback-needy teams Thursday night. Picking at No. 21, Pittsburgh passed on Sanders and chose Oregon defensive lineman Derrick Harmon instead. Later, the Giants jumped back into the first round at No. 25- but opted for Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart.

Still, Day 2 offers redemption. The Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and New York Jets all hold early second-round picks and need help at quarterback. With the pressure of being a first-rounder off his shoulders, Sanders could land in a better situation that allows him to develop without the spotlight burning too bright.

For now, the question isn’t whether Shedeur Sanders can play. It’s whether teams believe he can lead. And that’s the part of his game that might have to grow before the rest of the league fully buys in.