Kristina Roberts
The NFL Draft is a time when young football players see their dreams come true. But for Shedeur Sanders, son of the famous Deion Sanders, the 2025 draft turned into a tough and confusing experience. Instead of being picked early as many expected, Shedeur waited… and waited… but his name was never called. Now, NFL Hall of Famer Michael Irvin is speaking out, saying something doesn’t seem right about why teams skipped over Shedeur.
Michael Irvin’s Strong Words: “This Looks Shady”
Michael Irvin, a legendary NFL player and close friend of the Sanders family, did not stay quiet about what happened. He believes Shedeur was unfairly ignored by all 32 NFL teams.
“The NFL, for me, already—this looks funny. This looks fishy. I am sorry,” Irvin said, clearly upset.
Irvin knows how important football is for young players trying to make a better life. He himself came from a difficult background and used football to change his future.
“I told you how much I love and respect [football] because it gives a brother like me—a young brother that had nothing—an opportunity to get out… How can you not love so much that thing that brought you out of a hellhole and gave you a life?”
Irvin’s message is clear: Shedeur Sanders has the talent and skills to play in the NFL, so why didn’t any team pick him?
Shedeur Sanders’ Tough Draft Night
The NFL Draft is usually a happy moment where players celebrate being chosen by a team. But for Shedeur, it was different. Cameras were recording his reactions as round after round passed without his name being called. He tried to stay positive, but it was clear he was disappointed.
Many expected Shedeur to follow in his father’s footsteps. Deion Sanders was a superstar player who was picked early in the 1989 draft and became one of the greatest NFL players ever. Shedeur had a strong college career, showing great leadership and skill, so his draft slide was a big surprise.
Why Did Teams Pass on Shedeur?
This is the big question. Shedeur was a top quarterback in college, known for his strong arm, smart plays, and ability to lead his team. So why didn’t any NFL team want him?
Some people think it might be because of his personality. Shedeur is confident—just like his father—and some teams might see that as arrogance. Others wonder if teams were worried about distractions because of his famous last name.
But Michael Irvin doesn’t buy these excuses. He believes Shedeur’s talent should have been enough.
“This sht is shady,”* Irvin said, suggesting that teams may have avoided Shedeur for reasons not related to football.
What’s Next for Shedeur Sanders?
Even though Shedeur wasn’t drafted, his football journey isn’t over. Many great NFL players weren’t drafted but still made it big by signing as free agents. Shedeur could still get a chance to prove himself.
His father, Deion Sanders, has always supported him and will likely help him find the right opportunity. If Shedeur gets a shot, he’ll have a big motivation to show teams they made a mistake by not drafting him.
Fans and Players React
After the draft, many fans and fellow players expressed shock that Shedeur wasn’t picked. Some called it one of the biggest snubs in recent draft history. Others agreed with Irvin, saying the situation doesn’t make sense for a player of Shedeur’s skill level.
Former players and analysts have also questioned if NFL teams are being fair. The draft should be about picking the best players, but sometimes, other factors play a role.
Michael Irvin’s Stand for Fairness
Michael Irvin isn’t just defending Shedeur because he’s friends with the family. He’s standing up for what he believes is right. Football gave Irvin a chance to succeed, and he wants the same fairness for all players.
“How can you not love so much that thing that brought you out of a hellhole and gave you a life?”
Irvin’s words remind us that the NFL should be about talent and hard work, not politics or personal opinions.
Will Shedeur Prove the Doubters Wrong?
The NFL Draft didn’t go the way Shedeur Sanders hoped, but his story isn’t over. With support from legends like Michael Irvin and his father Deion, Shedeur will likely get another chance.
If he does, he’ll have a big point to prove—that he belongs in the NFL and that teams made a mistake by passing on him. For now, fans will keep watching and waiting to see what’s next for Shedeur Sanders.
One thing is clear: Michael Irvin isn’t staying quiet about what he sees as an unfair situation. And his message is making people think—was Shedeur’s draft snub really about football, or was there something else going on?
Only time will tell. But if Shedeur gets his opportunity, the NFL might regret letting him slip away.
