In Indianapolis, Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward found themselves side by side, each vying to make their mark as the top quarterback pick in this year’s NFL draft. Their individual styles could not have been more different.
Sanders, donned in a flashy necklace, exuded the same swagger and self-assuredness as his Hall of Fame father and coach, Deion Sanders. In contrast, Ward embraced his journey’s grit and determination, reflecting on his climb from an overlooked student-athlete in Texas to a Heisman Trophy finalist, and now potentially the number one draft pick this upcoming April.
Yet, amidst the friendly rivalry and playful jabs, Sanders and Ward demonstrated mutual respect on one of the most pivotal football platforms.
“We’ll both end up being one of the best quarterbacks in the league,” Ward expressed. “We play around, we joke around with it (who will be first), but it really doesn’t mean much. Ultimately, it’s about consistently proving yourself every Sunday.”
However, scouts will have to wait until the players’ respective pro days to observe Sanders and Ward live, as both opted against participating in workouts alongside other quarterbacks, running backs, and receivers in Indianapolis.
Instead, the two joined a growing list of high-profile prospects who prefer displaying their skills on familiar ground amongst college teammates. This list includes other top talents like Caleb Williams, Bryce Young, and Joe Burrow, all of whom were first overall picks.
While the football world anticipates who will emerge as the next number one pick, both Sanders and Ward boast impressive resumes, each having started over 50 college games. Sanders, along with his father, revitalized programs at Jackson State before replicating success at Colorado. Ward, meanwhile, set a record with 158 touchdown passes, transitioning from an FCS star at Incarnate Word in Texas to leading Washington State, and then steering Miami close to the CFP playoffs.
During this crucial week, Sanders and Ward have been nearly inseparable as they navigate the hallways of the Indianapolis Convention Center, sharing the same quarterback group as they contemplate their professional futures and strategize on reaching coaches and general managers.
“If you ain’t trying to change the franchise, then don’t get me,” Sanders declared. “History repeats itself, and I’ve done it over and over, so there should be no question why an NFL franchise should pick me.”
Despite their established success, each player faces challenges and questions. At 6-foot-2, 215 pounds, Sanders has a robust frame, strong arm, mobility, and an undeniable leadership quality. However, he must prove that his college precision translates to the NFL and work on reducing his tendency to take sacks. Concerns also arise regarding his father’s potential influence.
Sanders remains unfazed by such queries.
“You think I’m worried about what critics say? You know who my dad is? They hated on him, too,” Sanders said confidently. “Adversity is part of the package; it’s why we are who we are.”
Ward, slightly larger at 6-2, 223 pounds, possesses a more powerful arm, faster delivery, and throws with greater velocity. Yet, he occasionally struggles with accuracy and reading defenses. Despite his quieter public demeanor, Ward’s teammates attest to his leadership qualities.
“Everybody sees what he does on the field, but he’s not afraid to hold people accountable,” former teammate Elijah Arroyo said. “He has high standards and communicates them effectively.”
As debate lingers on their upcoming NFL futures, both athletes trust in their hard work and determination to carve out successful careers wherever they end up.
“I just think the work me and him are willing to put in, the relationship we have to constantly improve, will pay off in the long run,” Ward concluded.
