Shedeur Sanders at the NFL Scouting Combine
Adorned in diamond-studded jewelry and donning a black baseball cap turned backward, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders appeared at ease as he stepped up to the podium at the NFL Scouting Combine on Friday. "How’s everybody doing?" he greeted the large media group with a bright smile. "Legendary, legendary." His confidence was palpable, and he was ready to address a wide range of topics, from his skills on the field to his unique off-field experiences and his readiness for the NFL.
Believing in His Abilities
One of the most confident statements Sanders made was when he was asked if he believes he is the best quarterback in this year’s draft. "Of course," he replied. "Now, I respect a lot of quarterbacks here. They’ve put a lot of hard work in to get to this point, so kudos to them. It’s truly respect, but I know what I bring to the table." Sanders backed up his assertion by detailing his experience of working with six different offensive coordinators and helping turn around both Jackson State and Colorado. "If you ain’t trying to change the franchise or the culture, don’t get me," he emphasized. "You should know history repeats itself over and over and over. And I’ve done it over and over, so it should be no question why an NFL franchise should pick me."
Mental Fortitude and Mentorship
Sanders is proudest of his mental fortitude, a trait he believes sets him apart. "I know nothing can phase me. No pressure, no situation, the cameras. Nothing can phase me. I grew up with it," he said. This mindset, he believes, is crucial for a quarterback aiming to elevate a franchise. Sanders also spoke about his relationship with Tom Brady, the future Hall of Fame quarterback and a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, who has been a significant mentor for him. "He’s an all-time great," Sanders said. "Being able to have that resource. Being able to have that person I’m able to talk to and call whenever I’m having questions about the game. And he’s able to relate to it because he played the game at the highest level. It’s truly amazing and I’m thankful for that." Sanders mentioned that his first encounter with Brady was when the legendary quarterback invited him to work out in Tampa a few years ago. His father, Deion Sanders, filmed these sessions, which Sanders often revisits for inspiration and guidance. "Sometimes I just go back and listen to things that he said at that time," Shedeur explained. "And it registers. Everything he said back then registers now, and it applies. So, that’s what I’m thankful for."
Preparing for the NFL
Sanders acknowledged the need to adapt and grow as he transitions to the NFL. "Sometimes I got caught up playing hero ball," he admitted. "But I understand where I messed up now, and I’m going to fix it at the next level." He emphasized that his game is not just about his physical prowess but also his mental capabilities. "My game’s not played from my legs, and not even just my arm," he said. "What was Tom Brady’s best trait? His mental [ability]; he’s able to think." Sanders believes that his mental acuity and strategic thinking will be key assets in his professional career, making him the "ultimate cheat code" for any NFL team.
Off-the-Field Pursuits
Sanders also defended his off-the-field ventures, which include making music and engaging in other media activities. "You have to understand, we work out, we eat and we watch film," he said. "After that, we’ve got all these hours to yourself. So why would somebody criticize you for being at home and being able to express yourself the way you want to express yourself. You could be out being wild and doing all that type of stuff, driving as fast as you can and doing something wild." He added, "If anything, I think some GMs appreciate that you’re in a controlled environment, being able to express yourself and chill." Sanders sees these activities as a way to channel his energy positively and maintain a balanced life, which is essential for mental well-being and performance.
Media Scrutiny and Adversity
More than anything, Sanders believes the media scrutiny he has faced as a college player under the tutelage of his famous father has prepared him for the challenges ahead in the NFL. "You think I’m worried about what critics say or what people say?" he asked rhetorically. "Do you know who my dad is? They hated on him, too. So it’s almost normal." Sanders understands that adversity and criticism are part of the territory for those in the public eye. "Without people hating, it’s not normal for us. We like the adversity. We like everything that comes with the name. That’s why we are who we are," he stated. His ability to handle such scrutiny with grace and confidence is a testament to his resilience and character.
The Road Ahead
Shedeur Sanders has already met with the Las Vegas Raiders, who hold the No. 6 pick in the draft, at the combine. However, he confirmed that he will not attend the draft in Green Bay, preferring to celebrate with the friends and family who have supported him throughout his journey. While he didn’t specify whether the celebration will take place in Colorado or Dallas, his focus remains on the next steps in his career. Sanders is ready to bring his unique blend of mental toughness, adaptability, and strategic thinking to an NFL franchise, confident that he has the tools to not only succeed but to transform the team’s culture and performance. As he prepares for the draft, Sanders carries the legacy of his family and the lessons learned from one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, ready to make his mark on the league.
