Shedeur Sanders has risen to the occasion since day one. Leading Coach Prime’s Colorado rebuild? Check. Handling NFL doubters? Double-check. Even with an offensive line that was leaving him out to dry, he’s proven he’s got what it takes. But now, with the 2025 NFL Draft heating up, that confidence’s getting another test. Once a projected No. 1 pick, now he might not even be QB2. Some analysts aren’t convinced he belongs near the top of this quarterback class. Let’s hear it straight from the horse’s mouth.

One of the loudest skeptics is ESPN college football analyst Tom Luginbill. In a recent appearance on Outkick, Luginbill questioned whether Sanders would be viewed as a top-tier prospect if not for his last name. “I wonder sometimes if his name was Shedeur Smith… would we be having these same conversations?” A not-so-subtle jab at the idea that Shedeur Sanders’ draft stock is riding on Daddy’s name. And he’s not alone in his doubts.

NFL draft analyst Trevor Sikkema echoed similar concerns, questioning whether Sanders has the raw physicality to be an elite-level franchise quarterback. “I think he’s more of a mid-tier quarterback at the NFL level, but he plays the game in a way that you can start him and feel good about him with a high floor. The big question is, does he have the physical gifts to really be that kind of a quarterback to take you into the playoffs and beyond?” That kind of scrutiny could rattle a lot of prospects. But not Shedeur, aka Mr. 2Legendary.

Instead of firing back with a long-winded response, he let six words do all the talking. When a fan on X called out the growing criticism surrounding his draft stock, saying, “The Shedeur hate is getting kind of ridiculous ngl,” Shedeur Sanders simply responded, “It makes everything even more legendary.” Plain. Direct. Undeniably on-brand for the quarterback who has never lacked belief in his own ability.

Still, the debate over Sanders’ place in this draft class isn’t going away anytime soon. ESPN’s Matt Miller remains high on him, listing him as his No. 2 quarterback in the 2025 class. But three NFL scouts that Miller spoke to saw things differently. According to them, Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart is making a strong push to be the second quarterback off the board behind Miami’s Cam Ward.

“I think the big conversation is, who’s QB3 in the 2025 NFL Draft?” Miller said, via On3. “It seems as if Miami’s Cam Ward has established himself as the top passer. But I’ve talked to three NFL scouts this week who believe Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart has a shot to leave the Combine as QB2, which would push Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders to the third spot in this year’s draft class—which I think would shock all of us.”

The NFL Combine, as Miller pointed out, has a way of reshaping draft boards. Quarterbacks rise and fall based on their workouts, interviews, and how well they handle the scrutiny that comes with the biggest job interview of their careers. Sanders, for all his accomplishments, still has plenty to prove in that setting. His accuracy, football IQ, and poise under pressure are undeniable, but the lingering questions about his durability, arm strength, and ability to process at an elite NFL level will be put under a microscope.

If he wants to solidify himself as a top-two quarterback in this draft. The Combine next Thursday will be his best—and perhaps last—chance to silence the doubters.

For Shedeur Sanders, it’s his way or no way!

Say what you want about Shedeur Sanders’ draft stock—QB2? QB3? Who knows. Even when some mock drafts placed him at No. 6, he clapped back with confidence, saying, “That’s crap, bruh. I ain’t going sixth.” One thing’s clear: the Colorado quarterback is doing things his way. And part of that plan?

Skipping the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay for a more personal, meaningful celebration….

Buffs head coach Deion Sanders recently explained the decision, saying Shedeur and Travis Hunter are ditching the traditional draft stage to throw a massive on-campus blowout instead. “You won’t see us (at the draft),” Deion shared on The Rich Eisen Show, noting that Shedeur wants to celebrate with his people.

Rather than walking across the stage, shaking Roger Goodell’s hand, and holding up a jersey in front of millions, Shedeur wants to be surrounded by those who helped him get here. “We plan on doing it like an event thing, where it’ll be fun,” Shedeur said on his 2Legendary podcast. “The only thing with going to the draft is I want to spend those moments with my people.” Forget the cameras and the hype—Shedeur’s calling his own shots. And that’s more than just a draft decision; it’s a statement. He’s building his legacy, his way.