Mel Kiper Jr.’s first NFL mock draft of the year has Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders projected as a vital replacement for a former franchise quarterback.
In 2024, the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year had a strong senior season for the Buffaloes, who were led by his father and Colorado head coach Deion Sanders.
Shedeur Sanders (6-foot-2, 215 pounds) finished first nationwide in completion percentage (74%), second in touchdown passes (37) and fourth in passing yards (4,134).
And, despite Colorado surrendering 43 sacks this season (126th nationally), Sanders’ efforts helped the program win nine games for the first time since 2016.
Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders © Troy Taormina-Imagn Images. The biggest concern about Sanders’ 2025 NFL Draft forecast is how he compares to Miami quarterback Cam Ward, who is also a contender for the top passer picked this spring.
Although Sanders is listed as his number one quarterback, Kiper’s updated mock draft places Ward first overall with the Tennessee Titans.
“I actually have Sanders ranked one spot ahead of Ward on my Big Board (No. 4 overall),” Kiper responded in an email. “Ward has the early top-pick buzz around the league, so that’s where I’m leaning for the moment.
” In this scenario, Sanders would be drafted third overall by the New York Giants, one spot behind Colorado teammate and Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter (second overall by the Cleveland Browns).
The Giants have moved on from former No. 6 overall pick Daniel Jones, who signed a four-year, $160 million contract in 2023. New York finished 30th in passing offense in 2024, with Jones throwing eight touchdowns and seven interceptions in ten games.
It’s difficult to picture the Giants not pursuing a quarterback, even if a deal occurs on draft night.
“Sanders is super accurate, completing 74% of his throws this season,” according to Kiper. “He could come in right away and elevate the entire offense, including star 2024 first-round pick Malik Nabers. Time is running out for GM Joe Schoen and coach Brian Daboll; they must get this right.
” Sanders and Ward will be closely watched by NFL teams at the top of the draft order. And the pre-draft process will be a crucial factor in that decision.
Sanders is set to compete in the East-West Shrine Bowl ahead of the combine and Colorado’s Pro Day. The 2025 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
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