Coming back to school for another season, Shedeur Sanders is now under the NFL Draft microscope with the expectations of being a top QB off the draft board next year. As a prospect, he has captured the attention of the country. The son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, Shedeur has carved his own path in the world of college football. His performances at Jackson State and Colorado have demonstrated a blend of natural talent and refined technique that suggests he will be ready to make the leap to the NFL.
Sanders’ journey to NFL readiness is marked by several key traits that set him apart from his peers. His exceptional accuracy and decision-making abilities have resulted in impressive completion percentages and touchdown passes. Sanders’ leadership qualities and game management skills, particularly in high-pressure situations like the 2-minute drill, have drawn comparisons to established NFL quarterbacks. Additionally, his quick release, field vision, and ability to work behind various offensive lines highlight the versatility that NFL scouts value.
Learning from NFL Legends
Shedeur Sanders’ journey to becoming an NFL-ready quarterback is deeply rooted in his exceptional pedigree and unique upbringing in the world of football. Growing up as the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders has provided Shedeur with unparalleled access to football knowledge and expertise. This exposure has undoubtedly contributed to his impressive playing style, which has been described as a “unique brand of hero ball”.
Football IQ from Birth
Shedeur’s football intelligence is evident in his gameplay and decision-making abilities. His father’s confidence in his abilities is clear, with Deion Sanders predicting that Shedeur will be a top 5 pick in the NFL draft. This high expectation reflects the football IQ that Shedeur has developed from birth, growing up in a household where football was not just a sport, but a way of life.
However, Shedeur’s playing style is not without its challenges. His determination to make plays has led to him being the most sacked quarterback in major college football last season, highlighting the need for balance between risk-taking and self-preservation. As Shedeur continues to refine his skills and prepare for the NFL, his ability to adapt and learn from these experiences will be crucial in realizing his potential as a top NFL draft prospect.
Pocket Presence
Shedeur Sanders has demonstrated remarkable pocket presence, a crucial trait for NFL-ready quarterbacks. His ability to navigate pressure and make plays under duress has caught our attention. Sanders’ footwork and mobility in the pocket are key components of his exceptional presence. He has shown the ability to make excellent throws even under immediate pressure, showcasing his arm talent and poise. His capacity to get the ball to all areas of the field with little room to maneuver highlights his adaptability in tight situations. Sanders’ mobility allows him to create space and extend plays when necessary, a valuable skill for any quarterback facing NFL-caliber defenses.
Shedeur Sanders makes it look easy out there despite a terrible offensive line.
— Snoog's Fantasy HQ (@FFSnoog) September 2, 2024
My favorite parts of his game that will translate to the next level is his ability to pick defenses apart, make throws at all 3 levels, extend plays, and dissect the field. pic.twitter.com/skxY5AuqEE
Thought this was one of the two best throws from Shedeur Sanders. Good eyes to see the defense spinning the coverage and ID’n the blitzer.
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) August 30, 2024
Most impressive part is hanging tough in a collapsing pocket and delivering downfield.
A+ poise. pic.twitter.com/lwn1NEL1gc
Avoiding Sacks
Sanders was sacked 49 times, but not all of these were attributed to the offensive line. It can be pointed out that Sanders needs to improve his decision-making when it comes to getting rid of the football quickly. He is simply trying to do too much.
However, recent observations suggest progress in this area. An NFL scout noted that Sanders has been looking to release the ball more quickly and avoid ill-advised sacks. Young QBs cannot take bad sacks in the NFL, it wrecks game plans. Additionally, Sanders will put on more weight to sustain contact and become harder to bring down.
Maintaining Downfield Vision
One of Sanders’ standout qualities is his ability to maintain downfield vision, even when forced to scramble. He keeps his eyes focused downfield, using his mobility to extend plays and create opportunities rather than simply running. Doing all of that he even still manages to set his feet on a lot of these throws. This skill was evident in his game against North Dakota State, where he made several impressive throws while his pocket collapsed.
Anticipation & Deep Ball Precision
Sanders’ deep ball accuracy has been exceptional. In a recent game, he threw for 445 yards and four touchdowns. Sanders possesses a strong arm capable of making all necessary throws at the next level, including delivering deep passes with accuracy and velocity. His arm strength was particularly evident in a right sideline connection to Travis Hunter that traveled at least 55 yards in the air.
Sanders’ ability to anticipate and read coverages is another aspect that sets him apart. He has shown excellent timing on various routes, including slants, comebacks, and out routes. In one instance, Sanders noticed the leverage of a cornerback and purposely threw a back-shoulder pass to his receiver, effectively creating separation. This level of anticipation and decision-making is crucial for success at the NFL level.
Mental Toughness and Leadership
Shedeur Sanders has demonstrated remarkable mental toughness and leadership qualities, particularly when performing under pressure. The Sanders family has faced criticism regarding their approach to team management and player interactions. However, current players like Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig have come to Sanders’ defense, emphasizing the importance of hard work and opportunity within the team. Shedeur himself has shown a willingness to learn from mistakes, acknowledging areas for improvement such as game management. This ability to handle criticism constructively while maintaining team unity is a crucial aspect of his leadership style. Even when you are not winning all of the time.
Building His Case
Shedeur Sanders’ journey to NFL readiness is a testament to his exceptional skills and the unique environment he grew up in. His remarkable accuracy, decision-making abilities, and leadership qualities have put him on the radar of NFL scouts. What’s more, his quick release, field vision, and adaptability behind various offensive lines showcase the versatility that pro teams value highly. These traits, combined with his football IQ and mental toughness, suggest that Sanders has the potential to make a significant impact at the next level. As Sanders continues to develop and showcase his abilities, it will be exciting to watch how his skills translate to the professional stage, potentially following in the footsteps of his legendary father while carving out his own unique path in the NFL.
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