The NFL Draft process may face disruption next year, as Deion Sanders hints at unconventional tactics involving his son, Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders, and Buffaloes star Travis Hunter.
Sanders suggested that his players may refuse to play for certain teams, echoing Eli Manning’s infamous draft maneuver in 2004, where Manning’s agent threatened a holdout if selected by the Chargers, ultimately leading to a trade to the Giants.
Sanders desires the right fit for his sons, mentioning potential landing spots such as the 49ers, Cowboys, Commanders, and Ravens, teams he played for during his Hall of Fame career.
He emphasizes the importance of the right city, drawing from his own experience being drafted by the Atlanta Falcons and seeing Black representation in positions of authority.
Sanders is vocal about his preferences, including avoiding cold-weather cities for Shedeur, who grew up in Texas and played in temperate climates.
His stance could complicate the draft, creating a standoff between team interest and player preference, akin to Manning and John Elway’s successful maneuvers, albeit requiring substantial leverage.
Shedeur and Hunter, likely first-round prospects, could challenge the draft process with unprecedented demands, setting the stage for an intriguing draft narrative in April 2025.
