Mel Kiper Answers Cam Ward-Shedeur Sanders Debate

According to Kiper's first NFL mock draft of the year, it's Ward who hears his named called first with the No. 1 overall pick to the Tennessee Titans. 

Despite having Sanders ahead of Ward as his top quarterback prospect, Kiper went with Ward after n oting the "draft buzz" surrounding the strong-armed passer. 

"I'm sure new general manager Mike Borgonzi will listen to trade offers here, but his real decision should come down to Ward vs. Colorado's Shedeur Sanders," Kiper wrote. "I actually have Sanders ranked one spot ahead of Ward on my Big Board (No. 4 overall). Ward has the early top-pick buzz around the league, though, so that's where I'm leaning for now. He extends plays with his creativity, mobility and strong arm. Ward led the nation with 39 touchdown passes this season, and he'd help put the Titans back on track."

In this scenario, the Titans would be expected to move on from former second-round pick Will Levis, who started 21 games over the last two seasons. 

Tennessee finished 25th in passing offense in 2024. 

Sanders is the next player at the position off the board in Kiper's projection, which sends the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year to the New York Giants with the third overall pick behind Colorado teammate and Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter (Cleveland Browns). 

"New York will be weighing all options, and it might ultimately be forced to trade up into the top two to get its guy," Kiper wrote. "But here, Sanders falls into the Giants' lap without any extra moves.

New York waived former No. 6 overall pick Daniel Jones in the midst of a 3-14 season. Jones signed a four-year, $160 million deal in 2023 and threw eight touchdowns to seven interceptions in his last campaign as a Giant. 

"Sanders is super accurate, completing 74% of his throws this season," Kiper wrote. "He could step in right away and lift the entire offense, including standout 2024 first-rounder Malik Nabers. Time is running out for GM Joe Schoen and coach Brian Daboll; they have to get this right."

Prospects have time to bolster their draft stocks before the 2025 NFL Draft rolls around (April 24-26). Sanders is slated to participate in the East-West Shrine Bowl and both he and Ward could benefit by competing at the combine ahead of the draft.