Draft Stock Dilemma: Why Stephen A. Smith Questions Shedeur Sanders as a Day 1 NFL Starter

By Oddixa —

As the hype around Colorado signal-caller Shedeur Sanders reaches a fever pitch, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith sounds a note of caution regarding his immediate readiness for the NFL leap.

The Shedeur Sanders Hype Train Hits a Speed Bump

As the college football season progresses, the conversation around Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders has shifted from "if" he will be a top pick to "where" he will land. However, a new layer of skepticism has entered the fold, sparked by recent comments from Cleveland Browns General Manager Andrew Berry and a subsequent reality check from ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith.

While Sanders possesses the pedigree, the arm talent, and the poise that scouts crave, the transition from Deion Sanders’ pass-heavy "Prime Time" offense to the rigors of an NFL system remains a point of contention for analysts and bettors alike.

Stephen A. Smith’s Reality Check: Can Shedeur Start Day 1?

During a recent segment, Stephen A. Smith reacted to the growing narrative that Sanders is a plug-and-play starter for any NFL franchise. Despite being a vocal admirer of the Sanders family, Smith expressed significant reservations about Shedeur being under center for Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season.

Smith’s argument centers on the sheer speed and complexity of the professional game. Unlike some of his counterparts in the upcoming draft class, Sanders has operated in a unique environment at Colorado—one where he has faced immense pressure (both literal and metaphorical) behind a struggling offensive line. Smith suggests that while this has hardened Sanders, it hasn't necessarily prepared him for the intricate defensive schemes and the condensed windows of the NFL.

For bettors looking at NFL Draft Prop Bets, this caution is vital. If the consensus among NFL front offices aligns with Smith’s view, we could see Sanders’ odds to be the "First Quarterback Taken" fluctuate, especially if teams with established veterans are the ones moving up to grab him.

The Browns Connection and the GM Perspective

Cleveland Browns GM Andrew Berry recently offered praise for Sanders, fueling speculation that the Browns could be a potential landing spot given Deshaun Watson’s uncertain future. However, Berry’s comments were carefully measured, emphasizing the developmental curve required for all rookie signal-callers.

From a betting perspective, the Browns are an interesting case study. If Cleveland—or a similar team with a veteran bridge quarterback—drafts Sanders, the "Under" on his total starts in Year 1 becomes a highly attractive play. Smith’s skepticism reinforces the idea that a "redshirt" year, similar to Patrick Mahomes' path in Kansas City, might be the most beneficial route for Sanders' long-term success.

Impact on 2025 NFL Draft Betting Markets

Currently, Shedeur Sanders is a frontrunner in several key betting markets. Here is how Stephen A. Smith’s take impacts the board:

The Verdict for Bettors

Shedeur Sanders is arguably the most polarized prospect in the 2025 class. He leads the nation in several statistical categories and has shown an elite ability to perform under duress. Yet, Stephen A. Smith’s lack of confidence in his "Week 1 readiness" serves as a reminder that the leap to the NFL is rarely seamless.

At Oddixa, we recommend keeping a close eye on the Pre-Draft Combine and Pro Day measurements. If Sanders can demonstrate a high-level command of NFL-style play-calling and footwork during the draft process, he may silence the critics. Until then, bettors should be wary of assuming he will be a Day 1 starter and should instead look for value in his long-term developmental upside.