As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, one name is making headlines: quarterback Shedeur Sanders. While the public narrative from Sanders and his camp seems to suggest they’re open to any draft placement, insider opinions are beginning to reveal a different story. Louis Riddick, a former NFL player and current ESPN analyst, shared his thoughts on the matter, sparking fresh discussion about Sanders’ draft prospects and the teams that could be the best fit for his skills.
A Different Story Behind Closed Doors
On the surface, Sanders, along with his father, Deion Sanders, have repeatedly emphasized that they have no particular preference when it comes to being drafted. They’ve maintained that their focus is simply on joining an NFL team, no matter the timing or location. However, Louis Riddick, who has a well-established connection with Deion Sanders, believes there’s more to the story than meets the eye. Speaking on ESPN’s First Take, Riddick expressed doubt that Shedeur Sanders would want to go to any of the teams currently holding the top three picks in the 2025 NFL Draft — the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants. “I hope he doesn’t go in the top three picks,†Riddick said. “I hope he doesn’t. And I think his camp would tell you the same thing. There are other teams they want to go to.†This statement seems to suggest that, while Sanders may outwardly be open to any team, there are particular destinations he would prefer to avoid. Given Riddick’s longstanding relationship with Deion Sanders, it’s safe to assume there’s some weight behind these words.Teams Riddick Envisions as the Best Fit for Sanders
While Riddick doesn’t dismiss the possibility of Shedeur Sanders being drafted in the top three, he strongly believes that certain teams would be better suited for the young quarterback’s development and future success. “There are other teams that I hope he goes to, that I think would be good fits for him,†Riddick shared in a follow-up interview with Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com. “I do feel that way. I do feel like him going to a place like New Orleans or going to a place like Pittsburgh or Las Vegas, I think they would be very good fits for him.â€
Deion Sanders' Perspective: It's Not About the Draft Slot
As the father of one of the top quarterback prospects, Deion Sanders likely shares similar views as Riddick. According to Riddick, while parents and players alike typically desire to be drafted as high as possible, sometimes sliding down the board could work in their favor. “Every kid, every parent wants to be drafted as high as possible, but sometimes if you do slide — and I’m not saying that he is or isn’t, I don’t know what’s going to happen — but if he does slide, it’s not the end of the world,†Riddick explained. “It could wind up being better for you. That’s the point.†This outlook reflects a more pragmatic perspective on the draft process. While being selected early is often seen as a sign of prestige, sliding to a team that’s a better fit could ultimately lead to a more successful career. It’s a viewpoint that aligns with Deion’s known focus on the long-term development of his son, emphasizing that the destination matters just as much — if not more — than the draft position.The NFL Draft’s Unpredictable Nature
The 2025 draft is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory, and while many have Sanders pegged as a potential top pick, it’s increasingly likely that he won’t be taken by any of the teams holding the top three selections. According to many analysts, the window for Sanders could open at pick six, held by the Las Vegas Raiders, and then intensify with the New Orleans Saints at pick nine.