Opinions on Shedeur Sanders are mixed as the NFL Draft nears, with the Colorado star facing some criticism from analysts.
Whether the Giants decide to take Sanders with the No. 3 overall pick will ultimately come down to GM Joe Schoen — assuming Sanders is still available when they’re on the clock.
Critics have questioned Sanders’ athleticism and arm strength. However, Pat Shurmur — Colorado’s offensive coordinator and former Giants head coach (2018–19) — pushed back on those critiques.
“I think the 31 teams that pass on him are going to realize those concerns are unfounded,” Shurmur told ESPN’s Jordan Raanan. “He has a strong arm and the type of arm talent that allows him to make every throw — with accuracy, touch, and timing. I don’t think there’s a throw in the college or pro game he can’t make.”
As for athleticism, Shurmur believes Sanders has excellent pocket awareness and timing. “He can move in the pocket, scramble when necessary, and pick up key yards — similar to how Patrick Mahomes extends plays and converts on third downs. Shedeur has that same ability to create off-script and keep plays alive,” he said. “People get caught up in athletic testing, but being athletic is more than just speed or jumping ability.”
Another critique of Sanders is that he pats the ball before throwing, which some believe tips off defenders. Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton pushed back on that narrative on social media.
“If defenders were really that good at reading ball pats, they’d all be picking off 8 passes a year,” Slayton posted on X with laughing emojis. “It’s funny hearing that from guys who fall for the same route combos every season and give up key third downs.”
In his time at Colorado, Sanders posted a 13-11 record while throwing for 7,364 yards, 64 touchdowns, and just 13 interceptions, with a 71.8% completion rate. At his pro day on Friday, he completed 62 of 67 passes.