“Arm is Average at Best”: NFL Analyst Highlights Shedeur Sanders’ Weaknesses Drawing Shocking Comparison to Russell Wilson

Shedeur Sanders was once considered a slam-dunk quarterback prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. After a stellar year with over 3,000 yards and 27 touchdowns, the hype train was in full force. Many fans even predicted him to be the top pick. However, recent evaluations are painting a more nuanced picture.

While some early mock drafts placed Sanders below Georgia’s Carson Beck, analyst Connor Rogers took a deeper dive into his weaknesses. Rogers acknowledged Sanders’ strengths, like his quick throws and touch on deep passes. However, he highlighted some areas for improvement. Analyst Connor Rogers in the recent “NFL Stock Exchange” video dissected the strengths and weaknesses of draft-eligible college quarterbacks, including Shedeur Sanders.

Rogers noted Shedeur’s “jaw-dropping 49 sacks in 2023” Sanders endured, and added, “I get the offensive line sucked.” However, this high sack count raises concerns about Sanders’ potential tendency to “hold the ball for forever.” Co-host Trevor Sikemma backed this up with data, revealing Sanders’ average throwing time is “almost 3 seconds.”

Rogers further questioned Sanders’ arm strength, stating, “I think his arm is average at best.” He elaborated, “I don’t think it’s a great arm, and when you watch a class that has big arms it really hits you. Like I watch Jalen Milroe, I watch Donovan Smith, Conner Weighman. It’s like whoa okay it’s not that arm…it’s not close.”

Rogers added to the critiques by suggesting Sanders isn’t an “elite athlete,” unlike quarterbacks like Cam Newton or Milroe. He described Sanders as a “take-what’s-there runner” who prioritizes passing over scrambling. However, here’s where the eyebrow-raising comparison comes in: “His running style reminds me so much of Russell Wilson.” While Wilson is known for his pocket presence, his lack of elite speed is a point of difference. Can Sanders disprove these criticisms? 

Can Shedeur Sanders shine this year?

Shedeur Sanders has faced challenges as a starting quarterback. Despite playing as the starter signal caller for both Jackson State and Colorado, a weak offensive line has hindered his performance. This year, his father Deion, aiming for improvement, brought in 10 new offensive linemen. Additionally, Shedeur practiced his throws with his wide receivers through special practice sessions. While the team is improving, individual development also remains crucial. 

Despite Connor Rogers pointing out his weaknesses, Shedeur still became a top 10 Heisman contender last year. If he improves his arm strength and speed this year, he has a good chance of winning the Heisman. He might even surpass Beck and take the top spot in the 2025 NFL Draft. Who knows, he could even pull an “Eli Manning” and refuse to play for certain teams.