Shedeur Sanders Slips to NFL Draft's Fifth Round Amid Controversy

Shedeur Sanders, once projected as a top-5 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, endured a dramatic slide to the fifth round where the Cleveland Browns selected him at No. 144, sparking widespread debate and speculation. Analysts and NFL insiders cited several contributing factors: concerns about Sanders' approach to the pre-draft process, including not hiring an agent and reportedly poor interview performances; technical flaws in his play such as mechanical issues, lack of elite arm strength, and limited mobility; and questions about his on-field leadership, highlighted by a viral clip showing him refusing to shake hands with an opposing quarterback. Off-field incidents, such as a cruel prank call impersonating a team executive during the draft, also drew attention and prompted the NFL to launch an investigation. Some suggested that the scrutiny surrounding Sanders was intensified by his high-profile background as Deion Sanders’ son and his polarizing personality. Ultimately, his fall became one of the draft’s most talked-about storylines, raising questions about both the evaluation process and the impact of public perception.