The New York Giants might have just gotten an unexpected boost in their quest for a franchise quarterback. Colorado head coach and NFL legend Deion Sanders recently hinted that there are “a couple of teams” he would not let his son, top QB prospect Shedeur Sanders, play for in the NFL. One of those teams? The Cleveland Browns, who hold the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
That could leave the Giants, sitting comfortably at No. 3, in a prime position to land Shedeur. For a franchise desperate for stability and leadership under center, this could be the stroke of luck general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll need to turn things around after a disastrous 3-14 season.
Deion’s protective stance isn’t without precedent. He’s made it clear that as a former NFL player and now a head coach, he knows “what’s behind the curtain” in certain organizations and won’t let his son’s career be derailed before it starts.
It’s reminiscent of past draft dramas with John Elway and Big Blue's very own Eli Manning, both of whom refused to play for teams that selected them. If Deion sticks to his guns, the Giants could be the beneficiaries.
Did Deion Sanders solve the Giants' QB dilemma?
Shedeur Sanders is widely regarded as one of the top quarterback prospects in the draft, alongside Miami’s Cam Ward. If the Tennessee Titans, picking first, select Ward as many expect, the Browns would logically pivot to Shedeur. But if Deion pulls an “Eli Manning” and forces the Browns’ hand, the Giants would be in an enviable position to swoop in at No. 3.
Adding Sanders to the fold could instantly revitalize a Giants team that has struggled to find its offensive identity since the departure of Eli Manning. Sanders brings a polished skill set, high football IQ, and a swagger that could energize a locker room in desperate need of leadership.
Deion Sanders’ potential intervention in the draft could alter not just the Giants’ future but the entire draft landscape. It’s not just about avoiding the Browns; it’s about finding the right fit for Shedeur’s talents and long-term success.
For the Giants, the stars could be aligning at just the right time.
After years of futility at quarterback and plenty of head-scratching decisions from the front office, landing Sanders would represent a step toward stability and hope for a brighter future. With the Browns reportedly eyeing other positions and Deion Sanders wielding considerable influence, the Giants might just find themselves holding the golden ticket come draft night.