The NFL Draft is always buzzing with conversation, and this year’s crop of quarterback prospects is no different – though it’s generally considered a weaker class. Still, there are five quarterbacks who have garnered attention as potential first-round picks, and it promises to be an intriguing night one in Las Vegas.
Leading the charge is Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders, who has solidified his standing as a significant prospect over the past two seasons under the guidance of his father, Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. Shedeur’s trajectory has been impressive; he was once in the Heisman conversation and even seen as a top overall pick. While he may not be sitting at the top of draft boards anymore, most analysts still peg him as the second-best quarterback in this class.
Consensus on Sanders varies; critics and fans alike offer differing evaluations, but one thing is clear: those discussing him generally put in the effort to understand his skill set. Unfortunately, not everyone gets it right, as evidenced by a recent comment from Gerry Dulac, a reporter covering the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Sanders has been consistently labeled as a pocket passer — a field general with refined rhythm and pinpoint accuracy. He’s not just a standstill target, though; he’s noted for his ability to efficiently navigate his reads and throw with anticipation. However, one area where the scouting reports often differ is his athleticism. While he is undoubtedly a talented athlete, he’s not going to elude defenders with breakaway speed. He maneuvers the pocket well and can extend plays, but he doesn’t showcase the kind of speed that leaves defenders grasping at air.
It’s perhaps surprising, considering Deion’s electrifying athletic prowess, that Shedeur doesn’t mirror that incredible speed. Yet this isn’t a detriment; numerous successful quarterbacks excel through timing, execution, and mental acuity, making their mark without being the zip-around-the-field types.
Dulac’s commentary recently raised eyebrows, particularly his assertion that Sanders is “uber-athletic.” This label feels out of sync with the prevailing narrative. While Sanders is certainly miles ahead of the average fan, most scouting reports classify his athleticism as less than elite by NFL standards.
This kind of misunderstanding is a little disheartening, especially when it comes from someone covering a team like the Steelers who may be considering taking a quarterback in the first round. A fundamental grasp of player traits is essential, and it’s baffling that this slip could happen.
When you’re in the business of analyzing talent for a franchise with potential quarterback needs, accuracy in evaluating prospects like Shedeur Sanders isn’t just preferred; it’s necessary. Mischaracterizing a player’s attributes can have ramifications that stretch beyond one comment. For a player who has come so far and has much to prove, getting his story right is paramount — for both his sake and for those looking to understand this draft year more fully.
