Shedeur Sanders Reveals How Deion Is Helping Him With Draft Criticism

03/20/2025 06:53 PM

Shedeur Sanders has seen his abilities and character scrutinized ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft.

The Colorado quarterback could get selected with a top-five pick next month, but Sanders tumbled in some mock drafts amid gossip. One NFL coach reportedly called the 23-year-old "brash" and arrogant" at the Scouting Combine.

Sanders' famous father, Deion Sanders, can relate to critics conflating self-confidence with a bloated ego. Via USA Today's Mike Freeman, Shedeur discussed the benefit of having Coach Prime and other people by his side during the ordeal.

"It's definitely a learning experience that a lot of things aren't in your control," Shedeur told NFL Network's Bucky Brooks. "And just getting the knowledge from Dad and just coach, family and friends and everybody, you know that's supporting me, and helping me through this process is extremely important. I'm thankful that I have those resources."

Shedeur said he learned to ignore negativity throughout his college career.

"We always understood to block out the noise, even from Jackson State and Colorado," he said. 'It's a lot of critics, it's a lot of hate. But we know what to do, we know how to handle that in every way. So we remain happy."

Meanwhile, Deion defended his son in a separate NFL Network interview with Brooks. He called the unflattering narratives about his son "lies" and threatened to call out the person spreading rumors.

Deion labeled his son a "winner" who is "very intelligent" and "understanding."

"I can't wait to see where he goes," Deion said. "I can't wait to see what he does -- I know what he's gonna do. And I can't wait to see him and Shilo at the next level.

Earlier this month, NFL.com's Lance Zierlein projected Sanders to fall to pick No. 29. However, most mocks still anticipate him going early. Brooks, Daniel Jeremiah, and ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. are among those who believe the New York Giants will select him with the No. 3 pick on Thursday, April 24.

Related: NFL Coach Reportedly Accused Shedeur Sanders Of Being 'Arrogant'