Shedeur Sanders has been a hot topic after NFL insider Josina Anderson reported that a quarterback coach from a top NFL Draft team said he was 'brash' and 'arrogant' during an interview at the NFL Combine.
This has led to many analysts coming to Sanders' defense, including ESPN's Stephen A. Smith. On Wednesday's episode of First Take, the original king of hot takes was fired up.
"I'm trying to remain composed and not really be as angry as I want to be, Smith said. "I'm fuming inside right now. What is he supposed to be as a quarterback entering the NFL?"
He went on to say, "You can't be insecure and still succeed. You can't have doubts about your abilities and be successful as a quarterback in the NFL. If I know that, every single executive knows you have to have confidence. He has a resume that validates and backs up his confidence."
Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The ESPN personality also took issue with Sanders' so-called character issues.
"I'm getting angry because a young, black man, highly successful, highly accomplished, and incomparable and incredible pedigree is entering the NFL, is considered easily one of the top two quarterbacks entering the NFL Draft...We're hearing about his attitude. Hasn't been in trouble. Ever found himself in any kind of trouble?"
Smith implied that Sanders' hate was coming from his last name and his father's accomplishment. Shedeur even brought it up at the Combine.
NFL shows support for Shedeur Sanders amid backlash
"You think I'm worried about what critics say or what people got to say? You know who my dad is? They hated on him too. So, without people hating, it's not normal for us."
They say confidence is key for quarterbacks. But I guess some are playing by different rules.
NFL executive says Shedeur Sanders' one of the most 'pro-ready QBs' of the past decade
The NFL Draft begins on April 24, and the Tennessee Titans hold the No. 1 overall pick. The Cleveland Browns and the New York Giants round out the top three teams. Despite the noise, Sanders will likely be going in the top five picks.
Related: Former NFL Scout Boldly States Shedeur Sanders Undraftable Free Agent
Related: Deion Sanders Jr. Responds to NFL Scout's Criticism of Shedeur
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This story was originally published March 5, 2025 at 7:39 PM.