Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III weighed in on Shedeur Sanders’ draft experience following his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round over the weekend.
Multiple reports indicated that Sanders’ pre-draft interviews with teams were problematic, likely contributing to him falling far below initial projections and missing out on potential picks within the first four rounds. Griffin believes the situation extends beyond football evaluation.
“Shedeur Sanders shouldn’t have slipped so far in the NFL draft,” Griffin stated on his podcast alongside his wife, Grete. “It’s entirely personal – the NFL is attempting to send a message to Deion and Shedeur Sanders.”
Griffin drew parallels with other highly-regarded quarterbacks who exhibited confidence and even bravado throughout their college careers and draft processes:
- Eli Manning, who expressed reluctance about playing for the San Diego Chargers.
- Andrew Luck, a perennial No. 1 prospect from his freshman year onward.
- Baker Mayfield, coming out of Oklahoma.
- Joe Burrow, emerging from LSU.
“These players possessed similar confidence and assertiveness as Shedeur Sanders,” Griffin explained, “yet none faced the same level of scrutiny or perceived penalty.”
The Cleveland Browns selected Dillon Gabriel, a quarterback from Oregon, earlier in the draft before choosing Sanders. Sanders, known for his composure, responded to the situation with grace.
“Nothing really affected me the last couple of days,” Sanders remarked after being drafted. “I’m favored, I’m blessed… The love of the game is still the love of the game.”
He added that he intends to validate the Browns’ decision.
“The main thing, I’m just proving — coach Stefanski and general manager Berry – that they are right. That’s it. They’re right about picking me. I’m a good decision. I’m a good draft pick for them, to be able to come in there and do what I need to do.”
