As the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine approaches in Indianapolis on Thursday, Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders has made a strategic decision—Shedeur Sanders skips combine throwing to prioritize team interviews instead. Reported by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport on Sunday, February 23, 2025, Sanders aims to showcase his personality to NFL teams, saving his on-field performance for Colorado’s pro day. Projected as a top pick in the April 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders follows a growing trend among elite quarterback prospects opting for familiarity over the combine spotlight.
Why Sanders Chose Interviews Over Drills
Sanders’ plan mirrors moves by recent top prospects like Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels, who bypassed combine throwing last year for their pro days. At the combine, he’ll engage with teams to build rapport, a critical step as he transitions from college to the pros. Rapoport notes Sanders will throw and run drills at Colorado’s yet-to-be-scheduled pro day, giving scouts a tailored look at his skills in a comfortable setting. This approach underscores his focus on the draft process over immediate Combine exposure.
Sanders’ Stellar College Record
In his 2024 senior season, Sanders delivered an impressive 4,134 passing yards, 37 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions across 13 games with Colorado. Finishing eighth in Heisman voting—while teammate Travis Hunter claimed the trophy—Sanders proved his mettle as a dual-threat leader. Though invited to the 100th East-West Shrine Bowl, he opted out, keeping his focus on the NFL transition. His Super Bowl week NFL Network appearance highlighted his adaptability, noting, “It’s all about the process,” and leaving his draft fate to the teams.
What’s Next for Sanders
With Shedeur Sanders skips combine throwing, NFL teams must wait for Colorado’s pro day to evaluate his arm strength and agility firsthand. This delay adds intrigue to his draft stock as scouts anticipate how he’ll perform in Boulder.
To Conclude
Sanders’ decision to skip combine throwing reflects a calculated move to control his narrative. With a standout college career behind him, his pro day will be the next big stage to solidify his status as a 2025 NFL Draft top prospect.