Former NFL head coach Rex Ryan has ignited controversy with his scathing assessment of Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, delivering a brutally honest evaluation that questions the young star's readiness for the professional game.
Ryan's Blunt ESPN Analysis
During a recent appearance on ESPN's 'Get Up', Ryan didn't hold back when discussing Sanders' NFL prospects. "He ain't going to be a top-five pick, I can tell you that right now," Ryan declared, challenging the growing hype around the Colorado signal-caller.
The outspoken analyst pointed to specific concerns that could hinder Sanders' transition to the NFL. "He can't get out of the pocket. He can't create. He's not an elite athlete," Ryan stated bluntly, suggesting these limitations would be exposed against professional defences.
Durability Questions Emerge
Ryan emphasised the physical toll Sanders endured during the previous season, noting he was "sacked 52 times last year." This statistic formed the basis of his concern about Sanders' ability to withstand NFL-level pressure.
"He can't hold up to that. You're not going to last in our league if you're getting hit that many times," Ryan warned, highlighting the quarterback's vulnerability behind Colorado's offensive line.
Family Legacy Under Scrutiny
The analysis becomes particularly poignant given Shedeur's famous lineage. As the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, expectations were always going to be sky-high. Ryan's comments add another layer of pressure as the young quarterback prepares for what many expect to be his final collegiate season.
Ryan did acknowledge Sanders' toughness, conceding he "stood in there" despite the constant pressure, but maintained this wouldn't be enough for NFL success.
Draft Stock Implications
With the 2025 NFL Draft already generating buzz, Ryan's assessment could influence how teams evaluate the Colorado quarterback. His comments challenge the narrative that Sanders is a guaranteed early selection, potentially affecting his positioning in what promises to be a competitive quarterback class.
The football world now watches to see how Sanders responds to this very public critique as he prepares for the upcoming college season.
