Deion Sanders humorously suggests he might take a page from LeBron James, LaVar Ball, or Eli Manning’s playbook for Shedeur.
Colorado head coach Deion Sanders talked about influencing the potential NFL draft prospects for his son, Shedeur Sanders, the Buffaloes’ quarterback.
During an appearance on the Nightcap show with Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson, Sanders humorously referenced past draft scenarios involving figures like Eli Manning, LaVar Ball, and LeBron James.
“We’ve had extensive conversations about it,” Sanders said. “I interact with many teams at practice daily, but my priority is his happiness. While you can’t control where your son ends up in the draft, we know which NFL teams are struggling year after year. You definitely want to avoid those situations for your child and family.”
In 2004, Eli Manning was picked first overall by the Chargers but refused to play for them, ultimately being traded to the New York Giants. Manning later stated, “It was my decision after discussions with my agent, coaches, and others. I was concerned about the Chargers at that time and felt it was the right move.”
LaVar Ball was also outspoken regarding his son Lonzo’s entry into the NBA, confidently declaring in 2017, “My boy is going to play for the Lakers, and I’m going to make it happen.” Lonzo was eventually selected by Los Angeles with the second overall pick that year.
The Lakers also drafted Bronny James in the second round after his freshman year at USC, creating the first active father-son duo in NBA history.
As for Shedeur, the 22-year-old quarterback could enter the NFL in 2025 if he continues his strong performance this season. He has completed 70.1% of his passes for 1,630 yards and 14 touchdowns against only three interceptions in five games.
While Deion Sanders jokingly referenced Manning and Ball, it’s evident he is seriously discussing future NFL options with Shedeur as he finishes his senior year.