The NFL Draft saw several surprising turns, and one of the most talked-about was the slide of quarterback Shedeur Sanders. While many analysts debated his on-field abilities, Stephen A. Smith offered a different perspective on Friday. According to Smith, teams aren't questioning Shedeur's skill; they're wary of the potential involvement of his father, Deion Sanders.
"It's not about Shedeur," Smith stated. "It's about Deion. Teams don't want to deal with Deion's presence and potential influence." Deion Sanders, a Hall of Fame player himself, is known for his strong personality and outspoken nature. This has led some teams to believe that drafting Shedeur could mean also drafting Deion, something they're not willing to do.
Shedeur Sanders' draft stock has fluctuated significantly over the past year. Once considered a potential top-10 pick, he ultimately fell outside the first round. Whether Smith's assessment is accurate remains to be seen, but it adds another layer to the complex decision-making process that surrounds the NFL Draft. The situation highlights the unique challenges faced by athletes with famous family members, where perceptions and external factors can play a significant role in their professional careers.
Shedeur Sanders' Draft Stock Drops: Is Deion the Reason?
NFL analyst Stephen A. Smith believes Shedeur Sanders' slide in the NFL Draft isn't due to talent. Instead, Smith suggests teams are hesitant to draft Sanders to avoid dealing with his father, Deion Sanders. The Colorado Buffaloes quarterback was once projected as a first-round pick. This speculation raises questions about the influence of family dynamics in professional sports.