Robert Griffin III delivers sharp analysis on Shedeur Sanders’ slide in the 2025 NFL Draft, calling out teams for letting personal bias influence their decision. NFL Wires covers the full breakdown.
Robert Griffin III Humiliates NFL Teams Over Shedeur Sanders' Draft Slide: A Take Deion Sanders Would Applaud
In a week filled with offseason chatter, Robert Griffin III, also known as RGIII, lit up the NFL airwaves with his no-holds-barred critique of teams that passed on quarterback Shedeur Sanders in the 2025 NFL Draft. Once projected as a first-round lock, Sanders unexpectedly dropped to the fifth round—prompting sharp reactions across sports media. But none hit harder than RGIII’s, whose pointed analysis drew praise from fans and NFL insiders alike, and would no doubt earn a standing ovation from Deion Sanders himself.
Shedeur Sanders: A Top Talent Ignored?
Shedeur Sanders, the son of NFL legend and Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, entered the 2025 draft after an impressive collegiate run. In 2024, he threw for over 3,200 yards with 27 touchdowns and just 4 interceptions, earning him the prestigious Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
Despite his production, leadership, and football IQ, Sanders watched four full rounds pass without hearing his name. The Cleveland Browns eventually picked him 144th overall—sparking confusion among fans and analysts.
RGIII Calls It “100% Personal”
Robert Griffin III didn’t hold back. On a recent episode of his Outta Pocket podcast, the former NFL quarterback stated, “Shedeur Sanders should not have dropped out of the first three rounds of the NFL Draft. He dropped because it’s 100% personal.”
He continued, “NFL teams tried to teach Shedeur and Deion a lesson because they didn’t like how confident or outspoken they are. They wouldn’t do that to other quarterbacks who act the same way.”
Griffin’s point resonates with many who see a double standard in how NFL front offices evaluate “swagger” depending on the player’s background. He compared Shedeur’s confidence to that of Joe Burrow or Eli Manning—two QBs who were praised, not punished, for their assertiveness.
Deion Sanders’ Frustration Boils Over
Deion Sanders has long been a vocal advocate for his son, and he too addressed the draft snub in a podcast appearance with Asante Samuel Sr.
“It’s foolish what’s being said behind closed doors,” Deion said. “They’re acting like he’s uncoachable or disrespectful, and none of that’s true. He’s done everything right—worked with multiple coordinators, adjusted to tough situations, and stayed humble.”
Deion also questioned reports suggesting Shedeur skipped interviews or performed poorly during pre-draft meetings. “If you want to knock us, do it honestly—not with lies.”
A Silver Lining in Cleveland?
While the draft night may have been humbling, the opportunity ahead is significant. With Deshaun Watson still recovering from injury, Shedeur Sanders is receiving valuable first-team reps during the Browns' Organized Team Activities (OTAs). Early camp reports suggest he’s holding his own against veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, as well as fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel.
Cleveland's coaching staff has reportedly been impressed with Shedeur’s poise, quick decision-making, and command of the huddle. If he continues to develop, a starting opportunity may not be far off.
NFL Community Reacts
The fallout from Griffin's comments has sparked a fresh wave of debate across the league.
Former players have echoed Griffin’s sentiments, accusing NFL teams of being too political and image-conscious in their draft strategies.
Fans have rallied around Shedeur, flooding social media with support and videos showcasing his talent.
Analysts suggest this may become a case study in how front offices can let personal judgments cloud football decisions.
Final Thoughts: Bias Over Ball?
Robert Griffin III’s analysis didn’t just spark conversation—it hit a nerve. The NFL has long struggled with issues related to perception, image, and fairness, especially when it comes to evaluating Black quarterbacks. Shedeur Sanders’ draft slide may be the latest, but it’s certainly not the first.
Yet if there’s one thing Deion and Shedeur Sanders have proven, it’s that doubt fuels their drive. And now, with a chip on his shoulder and a Browns playbook in his hand, Shedeur has the perfect stage to prove every doubter wrong.
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