Shedeur Sanders is generating buzz in NFL circles as a potential franchise quarterback, a prospect that commands attention given his pedigree and impressive skill set. His performance has some analysts suggesting he might slip out of the Top-10 at the upcoming draft, but with numerous teams in need of a signal-caller, that’s hard to imagine becoming a reality.
Let’s take a closer look at why the Dallas Cowboys could make a bold move to trade up for Sanders, despite Dak Prescott’s current standing as the team’s starting quarterback. This isn’t just speculation; it’s an intriguing prediction worth exploring.
The Cowboys’ Potential Play for Shedeur Sanders
At the moment, the Cowboys have Dak Prescott signed for three more years. Yet, questions linger about Prescott’s postseason performance, as evidenced by his subpar 2-5 playoff record. In 57 of the last 83 games over five seasons, injuries have plagued Prescott, leaving the franchise to contemplate their future at the position, especially with him now reaching 32 years old.
Bringing Sanders into the fold wouldn’t immediately signal the end for Prescott. Instead, it could serve as a catalyst for competition, pushing Prescott to prove that he can deliver in the postseason. Alternatively, if the team doesn’t see the playoff success they’re hoping for, they could pivot toward Sanders sooner, perhaps exploring a trade for Prescott by 2026.
As it stands, the Cowboys appear to be behind the Eagles and Commanders when it comes to competing for the NFC East. Therefore, a forward-thinking strategy that includes a potential trade for Sanders could be a step toward bolstering their franchise’s future.
Proposed Trade Dynamics
How would a trade deal play out? One enticing scenario involves the Cowboys moving up to acquire the #3 overall pick from the New York Giants. In exchange, Dallas could offer the Giants the #12 overall pick, the #44 overall pick, and a pair of future picks in 2026—a first-rounder and a third-rounder. This trade would align with recent trends in significant draft trades, where teams have committed substantial assets for a top-tier quarterback.
Recent examples in the NFL highlight this trend. Just this past year, the Chicago Bears moved up from the 9th to 1st pick in a deal that involved a hefty haul, showcasing how high the stakes can get when searching for a franchise quarterback.
Sanders’ Impressive Numbers
When considering Sanders, you can’t overlook the numbers he has put up. His stats at Colorado speak volumes about his capability. With over 4,131 passing yards, 37 touchdowns, and a completion rate of 74% in 2024 alone, it’s evident that he possesses both the skill and the poise needed to thrive in the NFL.
Throughout his college career, he has consistently delivered strong performances, making him a player worth pursuing in the upcoming draft. Teams are certainly paying attention.
Other Teams in the Mix
The Cowboys aren’t alone in their interest; other franchises are eyeing Sanders as well. The New York Jets, for example, find themselves in desperate need of a quarterback, and with offensive playmakers like Breece Hall and Garrett Wilson already in place, Sanders could thrive there.
Similarly, the Las Vegas Raiders have a unique connection to Sanders through part-owner Tom Brady. The Raiders could prioritize a franchise quarterback, especially considering their current situation.
The New York Giants may also be in the market for a QB upgrade, potentially looking to trade down while keeping an eye on a talent like Jaxson Dart in the second round if they manage to land additional assets.
And we can’t forget about the Cleveland Browns, who hold the second overall pick. There’s a chance they, too, could pivot toward a quarterback, depending on how the draft unfolds.
The QB Landscape
It’s important to recognize that the QB landscape is changing rapidly. Comparisons between Sanders and other top prospects like Cam Ward will undoubtedly emerge. While some analysts may argue that Ward is ahead in development, teams are known to chase needs aggressively during the draft. History has shown that teams may overlook perceived rankings based on positional needs, making Sanders a player to watch closely.
As we look ahead to the draft, the intrigue around Shedeur Sanders continues to rise. If the Dallas Cowboys indeed decide to make a move, it could pave the way for a bright new chapter, not just for Sanders himself but for the team’s future ambitions. Stay tuned, because this is going to be a story worth following.
