Shedeur Sanders Draft Controversy: NFL Allegedly Pressured Teams to Avoid Colorado QB

The 2025 NFL Draft was supposed to be Shedeur Sanders’ crowning moment. Instead, it became a baffling slide that left analysts and fans scratching their heads as the Colorado quarterback, a projected first-round talent, tumbled down the board. Now, a shocking allegation suggests his unexpected fall was not a matter of team preference but a coordinated effort by the league itself to make an example of the polarizing star.

How did league intervention allegedly impact Shedeur Sanders’ draft position?

According to Pro Football Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson, the NFL office actively instructed teams not to draft Sanders. Dickerson, speaking on the ‘Roggin and Rodney’ show, cited a “very good source” within the league who claimed the directive was clear: “don’t draft him… We’re going to make an example out of him.” This alleged intervention explains the unprecedented slide of a player with Sanders’ profile and pedigree, who was finally selected by the Cleveland Browns with the 144th overall pick in the fifth round—far later than any major projection.

The story grows more intricate with the Cleveland Browns’ role. Dickerson’s account claims the league’s pressure extended to the Browns during the draft process. The team itself was reportedly contacted and told not to pick Sanders. However, a separate, countervailing “call was made” to the Browns’ organization, compelling them to ultimately draft the quarterback. This forced their hand, ensuring Sanders would not become an undrafted free agent—the scenario Dickerson believes was the league’s ultimate objective. The Hall of Famer stated unequivocally that the Browns “were forced into drafting him because somebody made a call to them,” highlighting the extraordinary behind-the-scenes machinations.

The Aftermath and On-Field Reality

The dramatic off-field narrative now collides with the reality of an NFL roster. The Browns have a established veteran in Joe Flacco, whom they have confirmed will be the starting quarterback for Week 1 of the upcoming season. This places Shedeur Sanders, alongside fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel, in a competition for the primary backup role. His journey from a headline-making draft night to a professional fighting for the QB2 spot is unlike any other in recent memory.

The objective was clear: to show what happens when you challenge the establishment. This alleged manipulation of the draft process, if true, represents an unprecedented level of control exerted over team decisions, turning a player’s professional destiny into a message.

Must Know

What was the alleged reason the NFL didn’t want Shedeur Sanders drafted?
According to Eric Dickerson’s source, the league wanted to “make an example” of Sanders. While the specific reasons were not detailed in the report, it suggests the league took issue with his conduct or profile leading up to the draft.

Which team was allegedly pressured not to draft Shedeur Sanders?
The report specifically names the Cleveland Browns as a team that received a call instructing them not to select Sanders. A subsequent call, however, allegedly forced them to draft him.

Who reported on the NFL’s alleged involvement in the draft?
Pro Football Hall of Famer and former Los Angeles Rams running back Eric Dickerson made the claims during an appearance on the ‘Roggin and Rodney’ show, citing a source within the NFL.

Where did Shedeur Sanders eventually get drafted?
After a surprising slide, Sanders was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft as the 144th overall pick.

What is Shedeur Sanders’ role with the Cleveland Browns?
The Browns have confirmed veteran quarterback Joe Flacco as their Week 1 starter. Sanders is expected to compete with Dillon Gabriel for the backup quarterback position.