Deion Sanders supports ESPN analyst criticized for expressing frustration over Shedeur Sanders' NFL draft delay

The recent NFL Draft saw a swirl of controversy as quarterback Shedeur Sanders experienced a dramatic drop in selection order, igniting passionate debate among analysts, fans, and those closest to the player. Notably, ESPN lead draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. emerged as one of Sanders' most vocal supporters—an endorsement that soon received public backing from Sanders' father and college coach, Deion Sanders.

During the three-day event, Kiper drew attention for his forceful criticism of NFL teams choosing to pass on Sanders. Clips of Kiper’s on-air reactions quickly spread across social media, with some mocking the analyst's views while others echoed his sentiments about the quarterback's skill and pro potential.

Kiper, frustrated with what he perceived as an unjustified slide, questioned the basis for concerns about Sanders:

"I think it's disgusting. I don't understand what the heck's going on with this. ... I don't see, outside of [not having] the rocket arm, 4.6 speed … what is [Shedeur Sanders] lacking? Somebody's gonna have to explain that one to me."

Deion Sanders, never one to shy from the spotlight or to let criticism of his son go unchecked, responded positively to Kiper’s defense. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Deion praised the veteran draft analyst:

"But I Love u my man! You stood on the desk with great balance 10 toes down and said what u doggone said & didn’t flinch. You knew what time it was my man & we’re blessed to be right where God wanted us to be. ‘With OPPORTUNITY’ they forgot I was in the tv/entertainment business for 20 years before coaching."

Despite support from prominent figures, Sanders' draft stock became a national talking point. Prior to the draft, an NFL Network survey of top prospects included pointed criticism from unnamed sources inside the league:

• An anonymous assistant coach described Sanders as "the worst formal interview I've ever been in in my life. He's so entitled. He takes unnecessary sacks. He never plays on time. He has horrible body language. He blames teammates. … But the biggest thing is, he's not that good."
• A longtime executive added, "It didn't go great in our interview. He wants to dictate what he's going to do and what's best for him. He makes you feel small."

This mix of public praise and private critique culminated in one of the most unexpected draft-day slides for a quarterback prospect in recent memory. After being predicted by many to be chosen much earlier, Sanders ultimately was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round, claiming the 144th overall pick.

Throughout the draft weekend, Kiper's steadfast advocacy for Sanders stood out, spawning widespread discussion across sports networks and social media. The analyst's unwavering stance—coupled with Deion Sanders' endorsement—has kept the spotlight firmly on the young quarterback as he prepares for his professional debut.