US President Donald Trump expressed frustration with NFL owners on Thursday, April 24, 2025, after Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders went undrafted in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump called the owners “stupid” for overlooking Sanders, a top prospect expected to be a high pick, in a league needing talented quarterbacks.
Experts had projected Sanders, the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, to be selected within the top five picks, or at least by teams like the New Orleans Saints (No. 9) or Pittsburgh Steelers (No. 21). However, the 23-year-old son of NFL legend Deion Sanders remained unchosen, marking a major surprise on draft day.
Trump praised Shedeur’s talent and “phenomenal genes,” noting Deion’s success as a two-time Super Bowl champion and current coach. “Deion was a great player and is a great coach. His son is ready for greatness,” Trump wrote, urging a team to pick Sanders for a winning edge. He also highlighted Deion’s coaching acumen and expressed optimism for Shedeur’s brother, Shilo, who is expected in later draft rounds.
Sources: Shedeur Sanders has become the only draft pick in pro sports history to spend more on his draft night setup than the total value of his first contract pic.twitter.com/W97Mh0TTEW
— RedditCFB (@RedditCFB) April 26, 2025
This isn’t Trump’s first clash with the NFL. In 2017, he criticised players kneeling during the national anthem, and recently questioned league policies under Commissioner Roger Goodell. Sanders remains a focal point for teams seeking quarterback talent as the draft continues.