The chess game of the NFL Draft is always a strategic battle, and for Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders, the move he makes now will determine his professional trajectory. With a legendary last name and a skill set that has NFL teams intrigued, the question remains on if he’ll land with an organization that truly invests in his success?

Shedeur’s decision to forgo throwing at the NFL Combine and instead showcase his skills at Colorado’s Pro Day is a bold and calculated move. While some analysts believe that throwing at the combine would provide general managers with more context about his ability, Sanders knows that his body of work speaks for itself. His play on the field, along with the numerous scouts who attended Buffs practices and games, has already given teams plenty to evaluate. He’s opting to use the combine for meetings with organizations, allowing him to assess which teams have genuine interest in drafting him.

The NFL is a business, and more players are beginning to realize that they don’t have to blindly conform to the league’s expectations. Historically, athletes have had little say in their draft fate, with teams deciding their futures regardless of scheme fit or organizational stability.

Shedeur is challenging that norm, recognizing that not all franchises are truly invested in building championship-caliber teams. His decision to wait for Pro Day gives him more control over his pre-draft process while also benefiting his teammates, as scouts who come to evaluate him may discover talent they previously overlooked.

The backlash from some analysts reveals an outdated mindset that insists players should simply follow the system without questioning it. The same experts who shuffle names around in endless mock drafts are now frustrated that Sanders is taking his own path. But what exactly do they expect to learn from watching him throw in shorts and a T-shirt? His in-game decision-making, poise under pressure, and ability to read defenses are already on film.

Shedeur Sanders falls in CBS Sports’ latest NFL Mock Draft

There is also precedent for quarterbacks skipping the combine and still being highly successful in the NFL. Just last year, Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall pick, chose not to participate in the throwing drills, and his stock remained unchanged. The same analysts criticizing Sanders had no problem when Williams made the same decision, which exposes the double standard at play.

Ultimately, Shedeur Sanders will let his performance do the talking. When he throws at his Pro Day in Boulder, NFL executives will be watching closely.

Shedeur Sanders’ masterclass in draft strategy on display by skipping NFL Combine

The opinions surrounding his choice to skip the combine will soon fade, and the real conversation will shift to which franchise will be lucky enough to draft him. The Sanders legacy is preparing to make its mark on the NFL, and the league should be ready for the next chapter of greatness.