Let’s take a closer look at one of the prospects the Panthers could select in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Since it’s never too early to look forward to the NFL Draft, this weekly series will take a closer look at some of the prospects the Carolina Panthers could select in the 2025 iteration of the Draft. In this series, we’ll only be looking at prospects the Panthers could seriously consider. With the benching of Bryce Young just two weeks into the season in favor of 36-year-old Andy Dalton, quarterbacks are now on the board. This week our profile will focus on Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shadeur Sanders.
Sanders definitely has the physical profile NFL teams look for at the quarterback position, at 6’2″ and 215 lbs. He has a ton of starting experience (in part because his dad has been his coach), landing the starting gig at Jackson State as a true freshman. After two dominant years at Jackson State, Sanders followed his father to Colorado, where he became the starting quarterback once again. His first season in a power five conference went pretty well. Sanders completed 298 of 430 attempts (69.3%) for 3,230 yards, 27 touchdown passes, and just three interceptions.
From a scouting perspective, Sanders has a lot to like. He has good arm strength and a quick release. He also does the mental side of quarterbacking well, setting up protection pre-snap and understanding coverages and leverage post-snap. Most of his weaknesses come from mechanics. Sanders’ footwork can fall apart too easily, leading to inconsistent accuracy. If he can tighten up his drop backs and throwing motion to be more consistent, he could become even more dynamic as a passer. For Sanders to truly thrive in the NFL, he’ll need to go to a team with a coach heavily focused on fundamentals and trusting the process. Sound familiar?
If the Panthers do find themselves in position to take Sanders in the 2025 Draft, would you want the team to take him? Sound off in the comments below!