Summary

Shedeur Sanders was drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft, Round 5, (pick 144) out of Colorado and Jackson State. Sanders is a highly polished passer with elite accuracy, excellent decision‑making, and strong mental processing—traits that make him an appealing quarterback prospect, especially in offenses that prioritise timing and structure over improvisation and pure arm power. He has already shown the ability to carry an offense, lead through adversity, and deliver consistently at the college level.

However, his profile also carries meaningful caveats. His arm strength, mobility, and size are not at the highest tier for “slam‑dunk” franchise‑QB status under all systems. The high sack and pressure rates in college raise questions about his pocket awareness and ability to avoid negative plays at the next level. He is more of a “will‑fit” than “will‑dominate” type in scheme. In short: if placed in the right environment—protected, schemed around, coached well—Sanders has potential for success; if tossed into a franchise‑QB role without support, his limitations may surface.

Strengths

• Outstanding accuracy, especially in short‑to‑intermediate throws: Sanders consistently posted very high completion percentages (above 70 % at times) and demonstrated refined ball placement. NFL Draft Buzz

• High football IQ and processing ability: He showed strong pre‑snap recognition, progressed through reads well, and made correct decisions under pressure more often than many prospects. NFL Draft Buzz

• Poise and leadership in the pocket: Despite heavy pressure and sacks in college, Sanders stood in and delivered throws under duress, showing mental toughness. ESPN.com

• Effectiveness on timing‑based and structure‑driven plays: He flourished in designs where decision speed and accuracy matter more than pure arm cannon, making him a strong fit for certain offensive schemes. CBS Sports

Weaknesses

• Below‑average arm strength for elite deep throws: While accurate, evaluators noted his velocity and zip on longer‑distance passes were limited compared to top‑tier QBs. PFF

• Pocket mobility and escape instincts are limited: Sanders lacks elite scrambling speed and sometimes drifted backward in the pocket instead of stepping up or relocating cleanly. CBS Sports

• High sack/pressure rates and delayed decision‑making: In college, he took an unusually high number of sacks, often due to holding the ball too long or drifting without locating the throw quickly enough. ESPN.com

• Physical tools and size below some NFL starter prototypes: At ~6′2″ and 212 lbs, and with modest arms/hands, some evaluators question how his body type will hold up in every‑down NFL starter roles. NFL Draft Buzz

Fit & Outlook

• Fit:

• Best in an offensive system that emphasises quick reads, timing‑based throws, structure, and intermediate distribution rather than purely improvisational or deep‑ball reliant schemes.

• Benefited when paired with a strong supporting cast (OL, run game, receivers) and where he isn’t forced into heavy scrambling or extended plays outside the structure.

• Less ideal if tasked with frequent 7‑step drops, heavy outside rollouts, big‑time deep passing on every snap, or if required to “create” off‑script too often.

• Outlook:

• Short‑Term (Rookie Year): Expect Sanders to contribute as a developmental starter or backup, likely in a transition role where the offense leans on his accuracy and decision‑making while limiting his exposure to deep‑throw exploitation or heavy sacks.

• Medium‑Term (Years 2‑4): If his arm develops further, his pocket presence improves and he receives a suitable supporting cast, he can become a reliable starter and potentially lead a playoff‑capable offence.