Deion Sanders Slams Pre-Draft Reports on Shedeur: “It Was Just Hate”
In the high-stakes world of college football and NFL draft hype, few names have captured more attention than Shedeur Sanders, the standout quarterback from the University of Colorado—and son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders.
But recently, the narrative surrounding Shedeur took a sharp turn after anonymous pre-draft scouting reports began to circulate. The feedback, according to Deion Sanders, wasn’t just critical—it was deeply unfair and possibly personal.
“That was just hate. That wasn’t evaluation,” Deion said in an interview with The Pivot Podcast this week.
A Father’s Fierce Defense
Deion Sanders, now head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, didn’t mince words. Speaking passionately, he addressed what he described as “fabricated negativity” targeting his son’s character, leadership, and even locker room presence.
While Shedeur is still a year away from draft eligibility (2025), the offseason buzz had already begun. Several anonymous scouts reportedly questioned his ability to command an NFL locker room, a claim that Sanders found not only inaccurate but also unfounded.
“You don’t even know him,” Deion said. “That’s not analysis—that’s a hit job.”
Shedeur’s Rising Stock Amid Doubt
Despite the criticism, Shedeur Sanders has continued to rise as one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in the 2025 class. In 2023, he posted over 3,200 passing yards and 27 touchdowns, often under heavy pressure due to Colorado’s struggling offensive line.
NFL analysts have praised his poise, accuracy, and football IQ, and many expect him to be a top-10 draft pick—possibly higher.
Still, as Deion points out, no other player has dealt with the scrutiny Shedeur has—possibly because of his last name.
“If his name was anything else, you wouldn’t be saying this,” Deion added. “He’s had to be perfect because they expect him to fail.”
Double Standards in the Draft Process?
The elder Sanders raises a broader point: how racial and personal biases may be shaping early narratives about young Black quarterbacks.
Historically, players like Lamar Jackson, Justin Fields, and even Cam Newton have faced oddly specific criticisms that often extended beyond the field—from questions about leadership to vague “intangibles.”
Deion believes Shedeur is facing a similar double standard.
“You praise others for their toughness but question his when he plays behind the worst O-line in college football and still puts up numbers?”
Coach Prime, Always in Prime Form
Deion Sanders has never been one to shy away from defending his players—or family. His coaching style at Colorado is as much about building character and confidence as it is about winning games.
This latest defense of Shedeur is consistent with how Sanders approaches both roles: coach and father.
And it seems to be working. Despite the criticism, Shedeur has been laser-focused during spring camp and is widely seen as a team leader on and off the field.
The Road to 2025 Starts Now
Though the NFL Draft is still a year away, Shedeur’s spotlight will only grow. Colorado is expected to improve in 2024, with major transfer portal additions and a revamped offensive line.
If Shedeur continues to deliver under pressure—and silence critics with his play—he could end up being one of the most compelling draft prospects in recent memory.
“He’s built for this,” Deion concluded. “We’ve been under the microscope our whole lives. But the truth always comes out.”
Final Thoughts
In today’s era of social media scouting and anonymous criticism, Deion Sanders’ defense of Shedeur is more than just a family moment—it’s a public reminder that the path to greatness is rarely smooth, and often unfair.
Yet, if there’s one thing Shedeur Sanders has shown, it’s that he thrives under pressure—and with Coach Prime in his corner, he’s got the ultimate teammate on and off the field.
