As the 2025 NFL Draft enters its final stretch, the absence of one major name from the list of selected quarterbacks is raising eyebrows across the sports world. Shedeur Sanders, the highly touted quarterback from the University of Colorado and son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, has yet to hear his name called — a shocking development for someone once projected to be a top-five pick.
Now, with his stock plummeting and the financial implications growing with every pick, analysts and insiders are starting to explore a once-unthinkable possibility: Could Shedeur Sanders return to college football?
NFL Draft Slide Sparks Uncertainty
Once considered a potential top-three selection, Shedeur Sanders has seen a dramatic fall in his draft projections. Despite high expectations and a stellar college resume, Sanders has slipped through three full rounds of the NFL Draft without being selected. That means more than 100 players — including five quarterbacks — have been taken ahead of him.
Each pick not only chips away at his perceived value but also significantly reduces the guaranteed money he could receive under an NFL rookie contract.
Could Sanders Challenge NCAA Rules?
With the fall turning into what some are calling an "all-out draft free fall," sources close to the Sanders camp suggest that the quarterback could explore legal or procedural options to return to college football, even though he officially declared for the NFL Draft.
While the NCAA currently prohibits players from returning after declaring and hiring representation, Sanders’ unique profile, NIL earnings, and high-profile family support could provide a compelling case for a legal challenge or an exception.
Several legal experts note that the rapidly evolving NIL landscape and increasing scrutiny on player rights might open a window for Sanders to petition for re-entry into college football, possibly at Colorado or even through the transfer portal.
Returning to Colorado — Or Another Program?
If Sanders does return, it would likely be to Colorado, where he played under his father, Coach Prime Deion Sanders, during the Buffaloes' headline-grabbing 2023 and 2024 seasons. However, insiders believe that other powerhouse programs could be interested in making space for a high-profile quarterback with NFL-level talent.
Programs in the SEC, Big Ten, and even Pac-12 are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, should Sanders explore the transfer portal as a last resort to revive his trajectory.
Financial Considerations: NFL Contract vs. NIL Deals
Another major factor in the discussion is money. While the rookie wage scale limits NFL salaries for lower-round picks, Sanders has already demonstrated the ability to earn millions through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) sponsorships in college. Some analysts argue that returning to college could be more lucrative in the short term, especially if he regains his draft value with one more standout season.
"Shedeur’s NIL earnings put him in a rare position," one NCAA agent noted. "He doesn’t have to settle for a cheap rookie deal when he can return to college, keep playing, and build his brand."
Reactions from the NFL and Fans
NFL analysts remain divided. Some argue Sanders should wait it out and accept a selection in the later rounds, using it as motivation to prove doubters wrong. Others believe the unprecedented move of returning to college could reshape how future athletes approach the draft system.
Fans, meanwhile, are pouring in support across social media:
“If Shedeur Sanders wants to bet on himself, I say go back and light up college football again.” — one fan tweeted.
“The NFL is clearly sleeping on Shedeur. College football would love to have him back,” wrote another.
Deion Sanders Has Yet to Comment
Deion Sanders, who played a critical role in shaping his son’s college career and media presence, has not yet issued an official statement. However, knowing Coach Prime’s protective nature and strategic thinking, it’s unlikely that any move by Shedeur will come without deep consideration and expert legal input.
Final Thoughts
The idea of Shedeur Sanders returning to college football may seem unconventional, but it’s quickly becoming a serious conversation. With the 2025 NFL Draft not unfolding as expected, Sanders is left with a crossroads decision that could redefine his career — and possibly change NCAA-NFL dynamics for years to come.
Whether he sticks it out and waits for a late-round selection, or makes history by attempting a return to college, all eyes remain on Shedeur Sanders.