Colorado’s standout quarterback Shedeur Sanders has decided to forgo throwing at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, prioritizing team interviews over on-field drills. Instead, Sanders plans to exhibit his throwing skills at Colorado’s Pro Day, following a growing trend among top prospects.
Focus on Interviews During the Combine
Shedeur Sanders, who is projected to be one of the top picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, has made a strategic decision to leverage the combine for interviews rather than physical drills. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Sanders aims to use this opportunity to enhance his rapport with potential NFL teams, helping them gain insights into his personality and leadership qualities. This approach reflects a broader trend among elite quarterback prospects, who often choose familiar environments, such as their respective Pro Days, to showcase their skills.
Impressive College Career and Draft Prospects
Sanders’ college career statistics speak volumes of his capabilities. In 2024, he completed 74% of his passes, amassing 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns with only 10 interceptions, figures that place him among the elite in college football. Despite his decision to sit out the combine’s on-field workouts, Sanders remains a top prospect, with experts predicting him to be a high first-round pick. His teammate, Travis Hunter, is also anticipated to be a leading draft choice, underscoring the talent present in Colorado’s program.
What This Means for the Draft and Sanders’ Future
The Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants hold the top three picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, making them potential landing spots for Sanders. While his absence from combine drills might raise questions, history suggests it is unlikely to significantly impact his draft stock. Previous top picks like Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels also skipped combine workouts, yet secured high positions in the draft.
By choosing to perform at Colorado’s Pro Day, Sanders ensures that he presents himself in an environment tailored to his strengths, potentially maximizing his draft value. This decision highlights a strategic approach to the draft process, balancing personal readiness with professional obligations. As teams prepare for the draft, Sanders’ interviews and forthcoming Pro Day performance will be critical in shaping perceptions and solidifying his status as a top quarterback prospect.
Anticipating the Impact on the 2025 NFL Draft
With the NFL Draft drawing closer, teams are meticulously evaluating their options, especially at the quarterback position. The Titans, Browns, and Giants, all holding early picks, will be keenly observing Sanders’ Pro Day. They will weigh his college performance, combine interviews, and Pro Day showcasing to determine how he fits into their future plans. Sanders’ decision to skip throwing at the combine aligns with recent trends, reflecting a calculated approach to optimize his draft experience.
As the draft approaches, Sanders’ journey will be closely watched by analysts and fans alike. His strategic choices, coupled with his impressive college track record, position him as a compelling figure in this year’s draft class. While much is yet to unfold, Sanders’ path underscores a thoughtful navigation of the transition from college to the professional stage, setting the tone for his prospective NFL career.
