Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
NFL Draft Prospect Shedeur Sanders’ Pro Day Performance Sparks Debate, Micah Parsons Weighs In
Shedeur Sanders’ Colorado pro day demonstration has ignited varied reactions within the NFL sphere, with Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons becoming the latest prominent voice to scrutinize the quarterback. As Sanders anticipates being a high first-round selection in the approaching NFL Draft, his workout at his alma mater this week has become a focal point of discussion.
Pro Day Footage Draws Varied Reactions
Video clips of Sanders’ pro day drills, specifically his pre-throw ball-handling technique, commonly referred to as ‘patting’ the ball, have circulated widely online, eliciting a spectrum of viewpoints.
Darius Slayton Defends Sanders’ Technique
In response to a social media post that labeled Sanders’ workout as ‘concerning’, New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton offered a defense of Sanders’ throwing motion. Slayton argued, ‘I assure you, his ball-patting will not be a hindrance. If defensive backs were adept at capitalizing on this, they would consistently intercept passes at a high rate.’ He further criticized defensive strategies, implying their shortcomings were more significant than Sanders’ technique.
Micah Parsons Questions Ball-Patting Habit
Parsons, a divisional rival from the NFC East, countered Slayton’s perspective, questioning the quarterback’s mechanics. ‘Do you understand that the action of patting the ball can be the critical factor between a successful play resulting in a completion or an unfavorable outcome like a sack or an incomplete pass?’ Parsons inquired, highlighting the potential drawbacks of Sanders’ technique in high-pressure NFL situations.
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Slayton Compares Sanders to Tom Brady
Slayton continued to champion Sanders, drawing a comparison to legendary quarterback Tom Brady. ‘Tom Brady, arguably the greatest quarterback of all time, renowned for his swift releases, also employed a ball-patting motion. Therefore, ball-patting itself is not the decisive element,’ Slayton asserted, suggesting it’s not necessarily a detrimental habit.
Sanders Responds to Parsons’ Criticism
Sanders responded sharply to the comparison with Brady, telling Parsons, ‘To equate the greatest quarterback ever with myself is why I’ll never engage in football discussions with you! What exactly are we trying to achieve here?’ He appeared dismissive of the comparison and the broader critique of his technique.
Andre Cisco Joins the Criticism
Parsons was not isolated in his evaluation; New York Jets safety Andre Cisco also voiced disapproval of Sanders’ throwing style, adopting a more critical tone. Cisco remarked on social media, ‘That kid better eliminate that ball-patting, or we’ll be jumping routes early,’ suggesting defensive players would exploit this tendency.
Sanders’ Draft Projection Remains High
Despite the differing opinions on his pro day performance, Sanders, who threw for 37 touchdowns in the previous college season with the Colorado Buffaloes, is still widely regarded as a top quarterback prospect, frequently positioned as the second quarterback expected to be drafted.
Cam Ward Expected to Lead Quarterback Draft Class
Former University of Miami quarterback Cam Ward is currently projected to be the first quarterback selected in the upcoming draft.
Potential Draft Destinations for Sanders
Notwithstanding Ward’s projected top selection, Sanders remains a strong contender to be picked early in the draft, potentially as high as second overall. Teams like the Cleveland Browns, who have a perceived need at the quarterback position, could be a viable destination. The New York Giants are also considered a team that might select a quarterback, despite recent acquisitions in free agency.
Giants’ Draft Strategy Speculation
Jermaine Eluemunor, an offensive lineman with the Giants and teammate of Slayton, hinted at the team’s possible interest in Sanders, commenting to Slayton, ‘I see what you’re subtly advocating for.’ Slayton retorted, ‘I have stated previously, I offer sincere opinions without ulterior motives or hidden agendas,’ reaffirming the genuineness of his earlier comments defending Sanders.
NFL Draft Awaits Sanders
Regardless of his ultimate destination, it is widely anticipated that Sanders will discover his NFL team on the opening night of the NFL Draft on April 24th, barring an unforeseen drop to the second round. The draft outcome remains eagerly awaited by both Sanders and NFL fans alike.