Shedeur Sanders, the electrifying quarterback out of Colorado and son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, made one thing clear at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine: He’s ready to rewrite the script for any team willing to draft him. From bold declarations about his legacy to addressing critiques of his game, here’s what Sanders had to say—and why teams like the Giants and Jets should take notice.
Shedeur Sanders’ Bold Vision for His NFL Career
Sanders didn’t hold back when discussing his aspirations, repeatedly emphasizing his goal to become “legendary” in the NFL.
- Changing Programs: “I went from Jackson State to Colorado and changed two programs back-to-back. You don’t think I could come to an NFL franchise and change a program again?” Sanders said.
- Self-Belief: “If you’re not trying to change the franchise or the culture, don’t get me. I’m the ultimate cheat code.”
- Legacy Mindset: Sanders’ brand, podcast, and clothing line all revolve around the word legendary—a mindset he plans to bring to the NFL.
“Legendary”: The Word That Is Shedeur Sanders
When Shedeur Sanders started and ended his media availability at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine with the word “legendary” it wasn’t just a catchphrase it was a manifesto. For Sanders being legendary isn’t just about football it’s about leaving your mark wherever you go.
“We went from Jackson State to Colorado and changed two programs back to back,” Sanders said. “You don’t think I can come to an NFL team and change a program again? It’s history. It’s going to repeat itself.”
For teams like the New York Giants and Jets—both in desperate need of a franchise quarterback—Sanders’ message is clear: If you’re not ready to change your culture don’t draft me.
What Makes Shedeur Sanders Special?
His teammates and scouts rave about his accuracy and love for the game. Travis Hunter, his Colorado teammate and projected top-four pick, put it best: “His accuracy and love for the game is what makes him special.”
Sanders is also tough. Over the last two seasons he’s taken 92 sacks. A lot of people say that’s “hero ball”. Sanders admits it’s a flaw and says he’s ready to adjust.
“Sometimes I was trying to do too much,” he said. “That’s just a do-or-die mentality. But now I know where I messed up and I’ll fix it at the next level.”
Why the Giants and Jets Should Take Notice
Both New York teams are desperate for a franchise quarterback, and Sanders sees an opportunity to revive struggling franchises.
- Giants Connection: Sanders spent time with Giants star receiver Malik Nabers in New York, offering advice on handling scrutiny. The Giants hold the No. 3 pick and have heavily scouted Sanders.
- Jets’ Playoff Drought: The Jets, picking at No. 7, need a leader to end their 15-year playoff drought. Sanders’ confidence and resilience align with their urgency.
- Raiders’ Interest: Sanders also met with the Raiders (No. 6 pick), where his relationship with Tom Brady (via Deion Sanders) could play a role.
Addressing the Critics
Sanders faced tough questions about his college performance and off-field interests but responded with unshakable confidence.
- Holding the Ball Too Long: “Sometimes I got caught up playing hero ball,” Sanders admitted, referencing his 92 sacks over two seasons. “I understand where I messed up, and I’ll fix it at the next level.”
- Music as a ‘Distraction’: Critics questioned his music career, but Sanders fired back: “If anything, GMs should appreciate I’m in a controlled environment, not out doing wild stuff.”
- Handling Hate: “You know who my dad is? They hated on him, too. We like the adversity—it’s why we are who we are.”
Could the Giants Be His Perfect Fit?
The Giants have been all over Sanders since the fall and have even been mentioned as preferring him over Cam Ward at No. 3 overall (smoke screen or not).
Sanders’ connection to Giants star Malik Nabers adds to the intrigue. The two hit it off during Sanders’ trip to New York for Travis Hunter’s Heisman presentation. Sanders offered Nabers advice on how to handle media after Nabers spoke out about the team’s performance.
“It was just getting to know him because we have relatability,” Sanders said. “I told him, ‘Bro, there are certain things you can and can’t say because they want to paint a picture of you.’ Since then he’s been good, smiling, having fun – even when frustrated.”
This bridge he could build beautifully into the Giants’ locker room and bring the leadership to turn the franchise around.
