Understanding the 2025 NFL Draft's unexpected twists reveals how two promising quarterbacks, Shedeur Sanders and Quinn Ewers, lost potentially life-changing sums of money. Sanders famously slipped from a likely first overall pick to the fifth round, costing him upwards of $40 million. Ewers, after turning down an $8 million NIL transfer opportunity, was selected as the 231st pick, leading to drastically limited earnings potential.
The decline in both players’ draft positions illustrates the high stakes involved in decision-making leading up to the NFL Draft. Shedeur Sanders, who showcased incredible talent as the quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes, had once been pegged as the top pick. With impressive stats, including over 4,100 passing yards and a remarkable completion rate of 74%, many analysts viewed him as a franchise quarterback.
His final season performance, highlighted by winning the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, only intensified expectations. However, a pivotal decision changed everything: Sanders opted out of participating in the NFL Scouting Combine. This choice raised eyebrows among NFL teams, with many perceiving him as arrogant, which unfortunately stuck with him throughout the draft process.
Sanders’ drop from the top
- Initially projected as a third to first overall pick.
- Ultimately landed in the fifth round with the Cleveland Browns.
- Estimated earnings potential went from around $45 million to just $4 million.
Prospective NFL teams scrutinized his interviews, leading to a consensus that Sanders’ demeanor came off as entitled. This misjudgment created a perception that he was unwilling to embrace the typical learning curve of an NFL quarterback, especially at franchises that might not have the immediate success he anticipated.
On the other hand, Quinn Ewers faced his challenges shortly after Sanders. Despite a commendable college career, including over 3,400 passing yards and a 65.8% completion rate, Ewers suffered from inconsistent performances and injury problems during the previous season. Yet, he faced a more straightforward conundrum: Ewers turned down a lucrative $8 million NIL transfer offer which could have provided immediate financial security. Instead, he opted to enter the draft, confident in a favorable outcome despite not being the starting quarterback for Texas with top prospect Arch Manning stepping in.
Ewers’ mid-draft missteps
- Missed a golden opportunity by declining an $8 million NIL offer.
- Drafted in the 231st overall pick by the Miami Dolphins.
- Will now have to work hard to earn a total of $4.3 million over multiple seasons.
Ewers’ decision was shaped by the ambition to prove himself, yet ultimately cost him potential earnings and a more favorable position than he expected. The financial difference is staggering when comparing the anticipated earnings of a first-round pick with that of a later selection, where he will now face the pressures of not only proving himself as an NFL player but also establishing a long-term career—something that many backups struggle to achieve.
Both Sanders and Ewers serve as cautionary tales for college athletes navigating the complexities of the draft year. Their experiences underline the critical need for proper guidance and evaluation of how decisions can dramatically affect future earnings in the NFL. Sanders learned this the hard way as he transitioned from potential superstar to fifth-round pick, while Ewers must now adapt to being a backup rather than cashing in on a career-altering deal.
Key takeaways regarding their draft experience include
- The impact of personal judgments on career trajectories.
- The importance of participating in critical pre-draft evaluations like the NFL Scouting Combine.
- The temptation to pass on lucrative college offers can have lasting implications in the transition to professional sports.
As aspiring NFL players consider their next steps, they need to weigh both immediate benefits, like strong NIL offers, against long-term career implications. The lessons from Shedeur Sanders and Quinn Ewers will resonate in the hearts of athletes, shaping their futures and altering the course of NFL history.
In conclusion, while every player dreams of turning professional, decisions made during pivotal moments can greatly affect financial futures. Understanding and navigating these choices wisely is essential. The stories of these two young athletes not only reflect their personal choices but also serve as a significant reminder for future talents entering the world of professional sports.