Shedeur Sanders: The Supportive Presence at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine
Shedeur Sanders, a prominent quarterback prospect, chose not to participate in the physical workouts at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine but made a point to attend the event in Indianapolis. His presence was not just about spectating; it was about showing solidarity with his fellow quarterbacks, especially Will Howard, who faced a mix of cheers and boos at Lucas Oil Stadium. Howard, the quarterback who led Ohio State to its historic first national championship in the 12-team College Football Playoff era, had a performance that was marked by both highs and lows. Despite missing several deep throws, Howard also made some precise and impressive passes. After the drills, Howard acknowledged his own critical eye, reflecting that while there were aspects he could improve, he felt confident in his overall performance, particularly in his footwork.
Will Howard: The Leader and the Critic
Will Howard’s performance at the combine was scrutinized, but he remained a strong candidate for the draft. Howard, who transferred to Ohio State last year, had a standout season, largely due to his high-caliber receivers. Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State’s all-time career receptions leader, and Jeremiah Smith, a freshman sensation, were pivotal in Howard’s success. Egbuka, a potential first-round pick, opted out of the combine drills, while Smith, who led the Buckeyes in receiving yards (1,315) and touchdown catches (15) in 2024, is not yet eligible for the draft. Howard’s ability to connect with his receivers, even under pressure, was evident in his championship-winning throw to Smith—a 56-yard bomb on third-and-11 that hit Smith in perfect stride. This play encapsulated Howard’s skill and leadership, as he maintained composure and precision during critical moments.
The Championship Performance
Howard’s performance during the College Football Playoff was his defining moment. In the championship game, he completed 17 of 21 passes for 231 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions, setting a record with 13 consecutive completions. His strong play and leadership earned him the MVP title. Ohio State coach Ryan Day praised Howard’s ability to inspire confidence in his teammates, noting that Howard’s leadership was as crucial as his physical skills. "We had such a great leader in Will. He was looking those guys in the eye, and they were breaking the huddle, and they believed in him when they huddle," Day said. Howard’s commanding presence and clutch performances throughout the playoff run highlighted his potential as a future NFL quarterback.
The Draft Prospects
While Howard’s combine performance may have been less than perfect, his overall tape and leadership skills remain strong assets. Joel Klatt, FOX Sports’ lead college football game analyst, ranked Howard as the No. 5 quarterback in this draft class. Klatt emphasized that Howard’s best football was played when it mattered most, particularly during the playoffs. "You turn on the film in the playoffs, man, and it’s really good. He’s got great command of what’s going on," Klatt said. Howard’s future in the NFL is promising, and with more positive reviews from team meetings and an upcoming pro day, he can further solidify his draft position. Teams looking for depth at the quarterback position may find Howard’s all-around abilities and championship experience highly valuable.
Shedeur Sanders: A Promising Future
Shedeur Sanders, a highly regarded quarterback prospect, is expected to be one of the first two quarterbacks drafted in 2025. His decision not to participate in the combine workouts is strategic, as he aims to leverage his strong college performance and upcoming pro day to showcase his talents. Sanders’s absence from the physical drills was not a reflection of his confidence in his abilities but rather a calculated move to ensure he presents his best self to NFL teams in a more controlled environment. Alongside Miami’s Cam Ward, Sanders is seen as a top-tier quarterback prospect who can immediately contribute to an NFL franchise.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
The NFL Scouting Combine is just one step in the draft process, and it does not define a player’s entire potential. Will Howard’s up-and-down performance is balanced by his strong tape, leadership, and playoff heroics, which could make him an attractive option for teams seeking depth. Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward, expected to be top picks, will have their chance to shine in different settings, including pro days and team meetings. Other quarterbacks, like Ole Miss’s Jaxson Dart and Texas’s Quinn Ewers, also improved their draft stock with promising showings at the combine. As the draft approaches, prospects like Howard will have more opportunities to impress, and the final evaluations will consider a broader range of factors beyond the combine performance.
