'The Colonel Was Rejected 1,009 Times': KFC’s Post-Draft Message to Shedeur Sanders Goes Viral

The message from KFC’s social media hit all the right notes as it signalled qualities like resilience, hope, and a sprinkle of humor. It’s fitting, given the Sanders family’s deep-rooted connection to the fast food restaurant chain.

Here’s the context: Back in 2023, Deion Sanders starred in a TV commercial for KFC. A year later, Shedeur and Shilo Sanders signed a multi-faceted NIL deal with them, making the Sanders clan part of promoting the restaurant’s new Smash’d Bowl.

Moreover, the Colonel’s story, as referenced by KFC, is equally legendary and fits the quarterback’s theme well. Harland Sanders, founder of the fast food restaurant chain, famously faced over a thousand rejections before anyone gave his fried chicken recipe a chance. To link that perseverance story to Shedeur’s journey was not just clever PR; it was a layered reply that struck an emotional chord with fans.

Unsurprisingly, many online praised the brand and even promised to increase their sales due to how impressed they were. “I’m not a huge KFC guy, but I may have to go grab a bucket after this tweet,” wrote a fan on “X”. “I will be eating more KFC after this post,” remarked another.

Others, meanwhile, couldn’t stop praising KFC’s social media admin for posting this banger of a tweet. “Great post, admin,” praised a netizen. “The brands are learning,” praised another.

As the dust settles on one of the most emotional weekends in recent memory, it’s clear that Shedeur isn’t just carrying the pressure of being a Sanders. He’s carrying the promise of turning every slight, every doubter, into seasoning for his eventual success — just like the Colonel would’ve wanted.