Skip Bayless Criticizes NFL Teams for Overlooking Shedeur Sanders in Draft
- August 12, 2025
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Sports analyst Skip Bayless has sparked controversy by accusing NFL teams of racial bias after Shedeur Sanders’ impressive preseason debut. Sanders, a rookie quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, showcased his skills on Friday night, leading to Bayless’s sharp critique of the league’s drafting decisions.
Shedeur Sanders, formerly of the Colorado Buffaloes, was selected by the Browns in the fifth round of the NFL draft. Despite his talent, Sanders was passed over 143 times before being picked 144th overall. The Browns chose him after trading down in the first round to secure defensive tackle Mason Graham and selecting Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel in the third round.
In a video statement, Bayless expressed his disappointment with NFL teams, labeling them as “petty fools” and “racist fools” for not drafting Sanders earlier. He suggested that some teams might have been influenced by their dislike for Deion Sanders, Shedeur’s father and a prominent figure in football.
Sanders’ performance against the Carolina Panthers was noteworthy, with two touchdown passes and 138 passing yards. This strong showing has increased his chances of securing a spot on the Browns’ roster, despite competition from three other quarterbacks.
The decision to draft Sanders in the fifth round has fueled discussions about potential biases within the NFL. Bayless argues that Sanders’ fall in the draft was a “disgrace,” possibly linked to his status as a highly-paid NIL college player and his demeanor during interviews.
While Sanders’ position on the Browns’ roster is not yet guaranteed, his preseason debut has certainly made an impact. As he continues to compete for a spot, his performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.