Title: Shedeur Sanders (QB): The Return of Eli Manning – A Draft Profile
In the world of college football, few names have been generating as much buzz as Shedeur Sanders. The young quarterback, son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, has been making waves with his impressive performances for Jackson State University. His skill set, poise, and leadership have drawn comparisons to former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, leading many to dub him “the return of Eli Manning.” This article will delve into Sanders’ draft profile, highlighting his strengths, areas for improvement, and potential fit in the NFL.
Shedeur Sanders: Background
Born on February 7, 2002, Shedeur Sanders is the son of Deion Sanders, a former cornerback and baseball player who is considered one of the greatest athletes in American sports history. Shedeur’s athletic pedigree is undeniable, but he has worked hard to create his own legacy in football.
Sanders attended Trinity Christian School in Cedar Hill, Texas, where he led his team to three consecutive state championships. He committed to Jackson State University in July 2020, where his father serves as the head coach. In his freshman season, he led Jackson State to an 11-1 record and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) championship.
Playing Style and Strengths
Shedeur Sanders is a pro-style quarterback who excels in the pocket. He stands at 6’2″ and weighs 200 pounds, boasting a strong arm and excellent accuracy. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions is reminiscent of Eli Manning in his prime. Like Manning, Sanders is also known for his calm demeanor under pressure and his ability to deliver in clutch situations.
One of Sanders’ most notable strengths is his football IQ. He has a deep understanding of the game, which allows him to make smart decisions on the field. His accuracy on short and intermediate throws is impressive, and he can also deliver deep balls with precision.
Areas for Improvement
While Sanders has many strengths, there are areas where he can improve. His mobility is decent, but he could benefit from improving his speed and agility to evade pass rushers in the NFL. Additionally, while his arm strength is solid, it’s not elite. Working on his arm strength will allow him to make more difficult throws at the next level.
NFL Draft Potential
Shedeur Sanders is undoubtedly a promising prospect for the NFL Draft. His combination of accuracy, decision-making, and poise make him an attractive option for teams in need of a quarterback. However, it’s important to remember that he’s still developing. He has the potential to be a high draft pick, but he’ll need to continue improving his game at the college level.
The Return of Eli Manning?
The comparison between Shedeur Sanders and Eli Manning is intriguing. Both quarterbacks are known for their poise, accuracy, and football IQ. However, it’s important to remember that Manning is a two-time Super Bowl MVP with a storied NFL career. Sanders has a long way to go before he can truly be considered “the return of Eli Manning.”
Nevertheless, the potential is there. Shedeur Sanders has shown that he has the talent, work ethic, and football IQ to succeed at the next level. If he continues to develop his skills and maintain his impressive performance on the field, there’s no telling how far he can go in his football career. The NFL world will certainly be watching closely as this young quarterback continues to make his mark on the college football landscape.