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Shedeur Sanders Draws Comparison to Former Lions Quarterback

Exploring what NFL world is saying about quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
John Maakaron|
Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders (2) looks to make a pass at the University of Colorado NFL Showcase
Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders (2) looks to make a pass at the University of Colorado NFL Showcase | Michael Ciaglo-Imagn Images

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One of the most polarizing quarterback draft prospects in this year's class is Shedeur Sanders.

In a recent ESPN post with scouts and executives weighing in on top draft prospects, Sanders drew a comparison to former Detroit Lions backup quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.

"Fringe starter who makes good decisions and does some good things but won't get you over the top," a personnel staffer told NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler.

An AFC executive also expressed, "I'm fine with Shedeur's personality -- he's tough and works really hard. He needs to be in a timing offense -- three-step drop, timing, throw."

Coming into the draft, the son of Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders has faced a significant amount of scrutiny. Despite evaluators even complaining about how many times he patted the football on film, NFL teams reportedly view the young signal-caller as being mature and having impressive accuracy.

His ability to process information at the line of scrimmage is likely going to impress multiple general managers.

According to Fowler, "That's a common refrain from evaluators: The hype around Sanders doesn't bother teams because he's detailed and mature in his football approach. His ability to process at the line of scrimmage and throw with accuracy and touch is impressive. The concern is more about the ability. Questions about upside abound. One executive said Sanders' ceiling is probably Kirk Cousins or a Baker Mayfield with less arm strength -- quite good, not quite elite."

A former first-round pick, Bridgewater started his career with the Minnesota Vikings. In 2016, a significant knee derailed his 2016 season and most of 2017.

Bridgewater had stints with the Jets, Saints, Panthers, Broncos and Dolphins before likely finishing his career with the Lions (2023-2024).

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell hugs quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (12) in warm ups
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell hugs quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (12) in warm ups | David Reginek-Imagn Images

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John Maakaron
JOHN MAAKARON

John Maakaron has covered Detroit Sports since 2013. Brings a vast array of experience covering the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Mercy Titans, and Oakland University Golden Grizzlies. John brings a wealth of sports broadcast experience. In 2013, John had the vision to establish the Detroit Sports Podcast Network. Has recorded over 3000 podcasts analyzing Detroit Sports. In 2019, Sports Illustrated Media Group, a historical sports media outlet, partnered with Detroit Sports Podcast to provide daily Lions content for their growing and expanding digital media outlet. Our Lions content can also be read in the newspaper at The Oakland  Passionate about Detroit Sports and it is reflected in his coverage of the local teams!

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