BOULDER, Colo. — Shedeur Sanders made it clear on Friday that he’s not relying on flashy cities to commence his NFL career. He mentioned that even the passionate fan base in Cleveland, known as the “Dawg Pound”, could be appealing to him.
“I could bring cameras and eyes anywhere I go,” stated Sanders while showcasing his passing skills with standout athletes Travis Hunter, Jimmy Horn Jr., Will Sheppard, and LaJohnty Wester during Colorado’s pro day event, celebrated as the “We Ain’t Hard 2 Find Showcase.”
Sanders is confident about his standing in the NFL draft happening on April 24, asserting himself as the premier quarterback choice. Despite the buzz of the Tennessee Titans leaning towards Miami’s QB Cam Ward for the top spot, Sanders remains optimistic about his prospects alongside Hunter, the 21-year-old two-way star and Heisman Trophy recipient. Hunter chose not to participate in the testing phases on Friday, but he excelled in showcasing his route running and pass-catching aptitude without gloves from Sanders’ throws.
Even with his skills on display, Hunter opted out of speaking post-workout as numerous NFL scouts from all of the league’s 32 teams converged on Colorado for this unique showcase, a tribute to one of Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders’ famous sayings. The event garnered nationwide exposure with major sports networks televising the showcase.
While the Browns secured the second overall pick, with the Giants trailing, both Sanders and Hunter are predicted to be selected within the top three drafts, although speculations suggest the Las Vegas Raiders might attempt to climb up from their sixth position.
Deion Sanders, valuing the right environment for Shedeur, spoke highly of the Browns, deeming them an ideal fit. This comes after Shedeur and Hunter reportedly shared a meal with the Cleveland Browns’ management the previous evening.
Indicating a likely turnaround in any team he joins, Shedeur expressed his readiness for fresh challenges: “I don’t think Jackson State or Colorado boasted successful histories before my arrival. So, it’s just business as usual for me. Another year, another project.”
Shedeur also showed gratitude for the impending selections in the draft, expressing, “I’m just thankful for the opportunity, and whoever selects me will be fortunate.”
Supporting his son’s ambitions, Deion reiterated his belief in Shedeur and Hunter’s potential as the top two picks, although he tactfully avoided specifying who should take the number one slot.
Both Shedeur and Hunter had earlier skipped major preparations at the NFL scouting combine and the Big 12 Pro Day. Meanwhile, Sanders’ brother, Shilo, abstained from the strength and jump tests at the Buffaloes’ indoor practice facility due to a shoulder concern. Impressively, he clocked the 40-yard dash at 4.52 seconds, later cheering for his brother during the afternoon session.
The spotlight remained on Shedeur and Hunter, the two-way player who not only amassed remarkable stats with 96 catches, 1,258 yards, and 15 touchdowns last season but also boasted a stout defense with 35 tackles and multiple interceptions, leading the Buffaloes to a 9-4 record.
Having swept prestigious college awards like Heisman, Bednarik, and Biletnikoff, Hunter aspires to maintain his dual roles in the NFL. Hall of Famer Champ Bailey noted that Hunter’s future roles will depend on the strategies of the team that drafts him, emphasizing that internal team policies will shape his early career experiences.
Reflecting on his final throws to his current teammates, Shedeur remarked about potential future partnerships, “I’m not sure one of these guys won’t join my team, considering our history together, so who knows?”
On a personal note, he cherished the experience of having his brother, Shilo, rallying for him, saying, “Having him there was great support. I wanted to witness his impressive 40-yard dash too. He trained hard for it, and it’s thrilling that we’re shining together during this hallmark period in our careers.”