Shedeur Sanders Opting Out of NFL Scouting Combine Passing Drills
NFL scouts looking to see Shedeur Sanders throw in person will have to wait a bit longer. The talented Colorado quarterback will forgo participation in any of the passing drills at the NFL Scouting Combine, focusing instead on interviews with teams. NFL Media reported this decision on Sunday, noting that Sanders will wait until Colorado’s pro day to display his throwing abilities. This approach is not unusual for top quarterback prospects, as seen in the recent past with Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, and Drake Maye, who all opted out of throwing at the combine before their pro days last year. Sanders’ decision to skip the combine’s passing drills marks the second time he has avoided participating in a draft event this season. He also missed the East-West Shrine Bowl in January, despite being listed as a participant, and it was rumored that the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants, the top three picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, asked him not to throw at practice that week.
Colorado’s Pro Day: A Highly Anticipated Event
A specific date for Colorado’s pro day has yet to be announced, but it is expected to take place in mid-to-late March, similar to the timing of the 2024 pro day, which was held on March 19. This year’s pro day will be one of the most anticipated events of the draft cycle, with Sanders and two-way star Travis Hunter both set to showcase their skills. Hunter, a Heisman winner, will have the opportunity to work out earlier in the week if he chooses to do so, as he is listed as a cornerback for the combine. Sanders, who has been viewed as one of the best quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class, had an impressive 2024 season, throwing for 4,134 yards, 37 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in 13 games, while also contributing with four rushing touchdowns to help the Buffaloes finish 9-4.
Mock Drafts and Projected Picks
FOX Sports’ Joel Klatt projects Sanders going No. 1 to the New York Giants (via trade) in his mock draft, highlighting the high regard in which he is held by analysts and teams. Meanwhile, Rob Rang, another NFL Draft expert from FOX Sports, sees the Las Vegas Raiders taking Sanders with the sixth pick in his most recent mock draft. These projections underscore the significant interest in Sanders and his potential impact on an NFL team. The quarterbacks will go through drills at the combine on Saturday, alongside wide receivers and running backs, but it remains to be seen if Miami (Fla.)’s Cam Ward, the other top quarterback prospect, will also opt out of the combine’s passing drills.
Sanders’ Decision: Strategy and Timing
Sanders’ decision to skip the passing drills at the combine is a strategic move that could benefit him in several ways. By focusing on interviews, he can build stronger relationships with team officials and coaches, which can be crucial in the draft evaluation process. Additionally, waiting until his pro day to throw allows him to perform in a more controlled environment, potentially maximizing his performance. This approach also gives him more time to prepare and refine his throwing mechanics, ensuring he presents his best self when it matters most. The top quarterback prospects often take this route to ensure they are in optimal form when showcasing their skills.
The Importance of Pro Day
Colorado’s pro day will be a pivotal moment for Sanders and other prospects. It provides a platform for them to demonstrate their abilities in a more relaxed setting, without the pressure and distractions of the combine. For Sanders, this will be his chance to showcase his arm strength, accuracy, and overall quarterbacking skills to NFL scouts and coaches. Travis Hunter, who has the versatility to play both wide receiver and cornerback, will also use this opportunity to highlight his unique skill set. The pro day will be a key event in the 2025 draft cycle, with teams eager to see firsthand what these prospects can offer.
Following the 2025 NFL Draft
For fans and analysts alike, the 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in recent memory, with Shedeur Sanders and other top prospects generating significant buzz. To stay updated on the latest news, projections, and more, fans can create or log in to their FOX Sports account and follow their favorite leagues, teams, and players. This will ensure they receive personalized newsletters and real-time updates, keeping them informed about the draft and other important NFL events. The NFL Scouting Combine, pro days, and draft events will all be closely followed, with each moment potentially impacting the future of these talented prospects.
