When it comes to NFL insider info, few voices carry more weight than Adam Schefter’s. But Colorado fans hoping to hear glowing predictions about Shedeur Sanders’ draft stock were hit with a curveball Friday afternoon. Schefter didn’t just temper expectations—he cracked open the door for a surprising third-round twist, naming teams few saw coming.
Big-Name Teams Backing Off?
Schefter revealed that some teams Sanders had been linked to are actually leaning in other directions. “The Giants obviously prefer Jaxson Dart. I think the Browns preferred Jaxson Dart. I think the Saints absolutely preferred Jaxson Dart,” Schefter said live on ESPN. That’s a sharp deviation from early projections that had Sanders pegged as a possible early Day 1 selection. If that trend holds, the Colorado star may find himself sliding into the late rounds, a shock considering his 2024 stats: 4,134 passing yards, 37 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.
Pittsburgh Steelers: The Most Likely Fit?
Schefter did point to one team with serious discussions around Sanders: “Unless he goes in the 3rd round, number 83 to the Pittsburgh Steelers, who had a discussion about him on the board at number 21…” The Steelers, known for taking a chance on raw talent with leadership upside, could be an ideal situation. Sanders has the poise, arm talent, and pedigree that aligns with Pittsburgh’s developmental style—especially behind a shaky QB situation that hasn’t stabilized since Big Ben’s departure.
Surprise Suitors in the Shadows
While top-tier teams might be cooling, a few unexpected names are now in play. “The Seattle Seahawks? The Arizona Cardinals? The Dallas Cowboys?” Schefter mused. These aren’t teams that have shown strong public interest, but all three had Shedeur higher on their draft boatds and could be looking to groom a future starter. For a player like Sanders, landing with a team not desperate for immediate results might actually be the best scenario.
The spotlight on Shedeur Sanders is as bright as ever—but the path may look different than expected. As Buffaloes fans watch the board, all eyes now turn to picks 33-100. Don’t be shocked if Sanders’ NFL journey begins with a surprise phone call from a team no one saw coming.
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