Shedeur Sanders Addresses the Root Cause of Hate Towards NFL Future

The curious case of Shedeur Sanders’ draft slide has sparked many debates. However, the quarterback himself believes the real reason has little to do with this play on the field. While recently making a visit to a Cleveland area high school, the quarterback aired out his feelings on this being about his background.

Despite his decorated college career between Colorado and Jackson State, Sanders fell to the fifth round of the NFL Draft, with the Cleveland Browns taking him with the No. 144 pick. While the front office of the New York Giants reportedly considered him worthy of a first-round selection, they ultimately traded back up for Ole Miss' Jaxson Dart.

Sanders believes his father’s polarizing legacy is the real reason many fans and analysts have turned a critical eye toward him. Deion Sanders and his 'Prime Time' persona has been known for his flash and bravado over the years. He's also considered one of the best defensive backs in NFL history. Shedeur says the backlash he faces isn’t based on who he is, but on assumptions tied to his father.

“Ninety-nine percent of the hatred is toward Pops,” Shedeur said via Cleveland.com. He added that younger fans who didn’t watch 'Prime Time' play tend to form their own opinions based off of those who came before them. It's a reason why he enjoys spending time in schools to connect with the younger generation.

Now with the Browns, Sanders is in a crowded quarterback room that includes former Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel. Deshaun Watson is still there, but is recovering from an Achilles injury and unlikely to play next season.

But beyond football, Sanders has made it a priority to connect with the Cleveland community. It's one of the ways to step out of his father's shadow and forge his own path in the NFL. Sanders is clearly focused on proving that he’s more than just Prime’s son.