All eyes are on the quarterbacks as we approach the highly anticipated 2025 NFL Draft. This year’s draft board looks different than it did at the start of the 2024 season, but two names stand out: Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward. With the stakes high, the evaluation of these young talents has become a hot topic among analysts and fans alike.
Shedeur Sanders: A Franchise Quarterback in the Making
Shedeur Sanders has emerged as a compelling prospect. ESPN’s renowned analyst, Mel Kiper Jr., has placed him at the top of the quarterback rankings. However, not everyone agrees with this assessment. Fellow analysts Matt Miller and Field Yates have ranked him behind Ward. Despite these differing opinions, Kiper’s latest mock draft predicts Sanders will be selected No. 3 overall by the New York Giants.
What makes Sanders so special? Kiper describes him as a “franchise quarterback” capable of leading a team to success. He pointed out Sanders’ remarkable ability to endure pressure, stating, “Think about Colorado and the punishment he had to withstand there, taking all those hits in that pocket.” Sanders completed an impressive 74% of his passes in 2024, throwing for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns. His accuracy and instinct in the pocket have drawn comparisons to NFL stars like Joe Burrow.
Evaluating the Giants’ Needs
The Giants find themselves in a precarious situation. With questions surrounding head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen, the franchise is at a crossroads. They need to make the right choice at quarterback, and Kiper believes Sanders could be the answer. “He’s not going to win any races, but in that pocket, his instincts and awareness are outstanding,” Kiper emphasized, highlighting Sanders’ ability to make plays under pressure.
But how does this impact the Giants’ draft strategy? Yates argues that the team cannot afford to settle for an average quarterback. “They have to get somebody into this offense who either is ready to win right away or a player who gives you some glimmer of hope for the future,” he stated. This is where Sanders comes into play. While Yates has him ranked No. 17 on his Big Board, he acknowledges that teams often prioritize quarterbacks over their overall ranking.
Concerns About Fit and Scheme
Despite the buzz surrounding Sanders, there are concerns about how he fits into the Giants’ offensive scheme. Miller, who ranks Sanders at No. 22, pointed out that Daboll’s offense relies heavily on the quarterback run, a style that Sanders may not excel in. “I don’t personally see Shedeur Sanders as a great fit schematically for the New York Giants,” Miller admitted. “But Brian Daboll might only be there for another year.” This uncertainty could lead the Giants to take a chance on Sanders, even if he doesn’t perfectly align with their current strategy.
Kiper sees the potential in Sanders, suggesting that with the right support, he could thrive in the NFL. “If you build around him and give him an offense that’s certainly better than what he had at Colorado, he can pay major dividends,” Kiper explained. His ability to throw accurately while facing a relentless pass rush is a skill that could translate well to the professional level.
What Sets Sanders Apart?
So, what is it about Shedeur Sanders that has analysts buzzing? His completion percentage speaks volumes. In 2024, he was the most accurate quarterback in the nation, and his ability to throw on the run adds another dimension to his game. While some may question his ceiling in a league that increasingly favors RPO-based offenses, his performance under pressure demonstrates that he can handle the demands of the NFL.
Miller and Yates both acknowledge that teams often overlook a quarterback’s ranking when the draft rolls around. “With quarterbacks, you largely have to throw out where they are in your Big Board in Round 1 because teams know they must find these players,” Yates noted. This highlights the urgency for the Giants as they look to secure a franchise quarterback who can lead them into the future.
Looking Ahead: The Future of College Football Stars
As we look forward to the 2025 NFL Draft, the spotlight remains firmly on Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward. Both quarterbacks have shown flashes of brilliance, but the question remains: who will rise to the occasion when the pressure is on? The Giants have a critical decision to make, and it could shape the future of their franchise.
In a league that values quarterback talent above all else, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will the Giants take the plunge on Sanders, or will they opt for a different direction? With the draft approaching, all eyes will be on these young stars as they prepare to make their mark on the NFL. The excitement is palpable, and as college football fans, we can’t wait to see how this story unfolds!
