• Shedeur Sanders went unselected in the first three rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft, but Nick Saban offered a strong message of encouragement, emphasizing development over draft order.
• Sanders had an outstanding 2024 season with 4,134 passing yards, 37 touchdowns, and a 68% completion rate, showcasing his talent under Deion Sanders at Colorado.
• Despite the draft setback, Saban highlighted that success isn’t defined by draft position, citing examples like Tom Brady and Russell Wilson, and stressing the importance of patience and growth.

It was a night of mixed emotions for Colorado Buffaloes fans as Shedeur Sanders, one of college football’s rising stars, went unselected in the first three rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite the disappointment, legendary former Alabama coach Nick Saban stepped forward with a powerful message of encouragement and perspective, shifting the narrative around Sanders’ draft future.

Saban’s Take: Talent Isn’t Defined by Draft Order

“Shedeur is going to get picked, and he’s going to have a great career,” remarked Saban, addressing the media frenzy and heightened expectations surrounding Sanders’ draft position. The seven-time national champion coach didn’t mince words, pointing out the disconnect between pre-draft projections and actual team evaluations.

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“Shedeur threw for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns last season under Deion Sanders at Colorado, but we created this expectation that he’s a guaranteed first-rounder,” Saban added. “That’s just an expectation, not reality.”

Saban emphasized the importance of quarterback development, warning against rushing players into roles they may not be fully prepared for. “A lot of failings come at quarterback when guys play before they’re ready. You need time to develop,” he explained.

A Season to Remember Amid Draft Setbacks

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Shedeur’s incredible 2024 season turned heads nationwide. With a completion rate of 68%, he consistently delivered clutch performances that contributed to Colorado’s resurgence under his father, Deion Sanders. As the leader of the Buffaloes, Shedeur proved his ability to compete at a high level, even against powerhouse programs.

However, Saban’s comments highlight a larger NFL truth: the draft process isn’t just about stats or highlight reels—it’s about long-term potential. While Sanders may not have heard his name in the first round, many teams remain in desperate need of a franchise quarterback, including the Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints, who hold early second-round picks.

What This Means for Sanders’ Career

For Buffaloes fans, Saban’s words serve as a reminder that draft order isn’t the ultimate indicator of success. Some of the NFL’s greatest quarterbacks—like Tom Brady and Russell Wilson—were overlooked in early rounds but still carved out Hall of Fame-worthy careers.

Saban believes that slipping out of the first round could even work in Sanders’ favor. “The moment a player gets picked matters less than what they do with the opportunity,” Saban said. His comments suggest Sanders has the tools to thrive, but patience and proper development will be pivotal.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Shedeur?

Sanders’ story is far from over. With the second round of the NFL Draft underway, teams in need of a quarterback have a chance to land one of the most promising prospects. Regardless of when his name gets called, Sanders has already proven his resilience and dedication to the game.

For fans of the Buffaloes and football enthusiasts everywhere, this is just the beginning of an exciting journey. What do you think about Shedeur Sanders’ NFL potential? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know!

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