In a statement that has sent shockwaves through the sporting world, ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins has made a staggering comparison, likening NFL rookie Shedeur Sanders to former US President Barack Obama in terms of influence and power.
A Stunning Comparison from a Former NBA Champion
The bold declaration came following Sanders' impressive first career start for the Cleveland Browns. The 23-year-old quarterback helped guide his team to a 24-10 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, a performance that included 209 passing yards and one touchdown.
Perkins, a former NBA champion known for his outspoken commentary, did not hold back in his praise on the LGND TLK podcast. "Shedeur Sanders is the most powerful black man since 2009," Perkins claimed. He explicitly linked this to the year Barack Obama was first inaugurated as the United States' first black president.
Elaborating on his striking take, Perkins explained the duality of Sanders' appeal. "And when I say powerful, there’s two sides of it," he continued. "You've got the black community, he's bringing the whole black community together. I haven't ran across one black person who said one bad thing about Shedeur. Because he has the balance of 'I'm arrogant but I'm humble too.'"
A Landmark Victory Amid Personal Turmoil
Sanders' on-field success marked a significant personal and franchise milestone. By securing the win, he broke an 0-17 streak, becoming the first quarterback to win on his first career start for the Cleveland Browns.
This triumphant moment came during a tumultuous week for the rookie. Shortly after making his NFL debut by replacing an injured Dillon Gabriel, it was revealed that Sanders had been the victim of a burglary at his home. Reports from TMZ Sports indicate that three masked and gloved suspects entered his property, making off with an estimated $200,000 in property.
Acclaim from the Highest Places
Perkins was not alone in his admiration for the young quarterback's debut. The performance captured national attention and even drew a commendation from former President Donald Trump.
Taking to his Truth Social platform, Trump posted: "Shedeur Sanders was GREAT. Wins first game, career start, as a pro (for Cleveland). Great Genes. I TOLD YOU SO!" This public endorsement echoed Trump's earlier frustration in April when franchises initially overlooked Sanders in the draft, before the Browns finally selected him in the fifth round.
Perkins concluded his passionate analysis by broadening his initial statement, asserting, "He’s the most powerful Black man in sports. You know, what, f*** black man, he’s the most powerful player in sports. Because even when he’s not playing, he’s still getting talked about." This powerful endorsement solidifies Shedeur Sanders' sudden and dramatic arrival on the national stage.
