The NFL Draft is one of the most unpredictable events in sports. Every year, highly touted prospects see their stock rise or fall based on team needs, combine performances, and off-field concerns. But few projected first-round quarterbacks experience the kind of dramatic slide that Shedeur Sanders did in the 2024 NFL Draft. Initially viewed as a potential top-10 pick, Sanders—son of Pro Football Hall of Famer and Colorado head coach Deion Sanders—fell deep into the second round before finally being selected.

While some analysts pointed to concerns about his mechanics or system fit, the reality is that Shedeur’s slide may have been influenced by factors beyond pure football. From the weight of his famous last name to the unconventional path he took to the draft, several underlying narratives likely played a role in his unexpected fall.

1. The Burden of the Sanders Name

There’s no denying that being the son of Deion Sanders comes with immense pressure. Deion is one of the most electrifying athletes in sports history—a two-sport star, Super Bowl champion, and cultural icon. While Shedeur has embraced the legacy, NFL teams may have hesitated due to concerns about whether he could step out of his father’s shadow and establish his own identity in the league.

Additionally, Deion’s outspoken nature and constant presence in the media may have inadvertently affected Shedeur’s draft stock. Some teams prefer low-profile players who avoid distractions, and Deion’s tendency to publicly advocate for his son—while well-intentioned—might have made franchises wary of potential locker-room dynamics.

2. The Unconventional College Route

Unlike most top QB prospects, Shedeur didn’t follow the traditional Power 5 college path. After dominating at Jackson State under his father’s coaching, he transferred to Colorado amid massive hype. While he put up impressive numbers (3,230 yards, 27 TDs in 2023), skeptics questioned the level of competition he faced and whether his success was a product of Deion’s system rather than NFL-ready talent.

NFL scouts tend to favor quarterbacks from pro-style offenses, and Shedeur’s time in an unconventional, pass-heavy scheme at Colorado may have raised doubts about his ability to transition to a more structured NFL playbook.

3. The “Celebrity Quarterback” Perception

Shedeur’s high-profile social media presence and involvement in off-field ventures (including endorsements and media appearances) may have contributed to the perception that he was more of a “celebrity” than a football-first player. While modern athletes are expected to build their brands, some old-school NFL executives still prefer prospects who are entirely focused on football.

The success (or struggles) of past “celebrity” quarterbacks like Johnny Manziel may have also played a subconscious role in teams’ reluctance to draft Shedeur early.

4. The Injury Concerns

Though not widely discussed, Shedeur battled through multiple injuries during his final college season, including a lingering ankle issue that affected his mobility. Teams may have been concerned about his durability, especially given the physical demands of the NFL.

5. The Psychological Factor

The draft process is as much a mental test as it is a physical one. Teams conduct extensive background checks, interviewing coaches, teammates, and even family members to assess a player’s maturity and leadership. Given Shedeur’s close relationship with his father—who is also his coach—some franchises may have questioned whether he could thrive without Deion’s direct guidance.

Conclusion: A Second-Round Steal?

While Shedeur Sanders’ draft slide was surprising, it may ultimately work in his favor. Landing with a team that believes in him—rather than being thrust into immediate pressure as a first-round pick—could allow him to develop at his own pace.

History has shown that draft position doesn’t always determine success. Tom Brady was a sixth-round pick. Dak Prescott went in the fourth. If Shedeur uses this slide as motivation, he could prove that his talent outweighs the off-field narratives that contributed to his fall.