The East-West Shrine Bowl game is going to be the foundation of trust between NFL scouts and prospects. Although Shedeur Sanders’ is not here to play, he’s there to meet the scouts in Denton, Texas. And the Colorado QB is already gaining the trust and confidence of multiple NFL franchises. Among them is the Tennessee Titans, who hold the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. They sent over a dozen team officials to Denton this weekend, headed by coach Brian Callahan, GM Mike Borgonzi, and OC Nick Holz, among others. And one thing is clear, both parties have a mutual interest in each other. 

The Tennessee Titans shared their meeting with Shedeur Sanders on their official website on January 26. The 15 minutes that he spent with Brian Callahan on Friday was a success. It’s apparent in the 22-year-old Buffs QB’s statement for Tennessee—“I know the city, and I’ve heard a lot of great things about the city. And, I obviously see a lot of great things about their fan base. So, I know it’s really fun there.” But here’s the interesting bit. What if the Titans pick him as the first overall? Shedeur said, “I’d love it. I would be thankful.”

Brian Callahan was able to get to know Shedeur Sanders on a more personal level after the talk. And he’s pleased with the outcome. He later said, “You can tell he’s been raised right. He’s mature; he has a really poised way about him, and he seems like a really good kid.” And we all know where that comes from. Discipline is nothing new in the Sanders household, spearheaded by none other than NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. 

It’s no secret the Titans are scouting for quarterbacks after finishing last in the 2024 season. With them holding the first overall pick and Shedeur Sanders projected as a top QB, the chances aren’t slim. While his 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns this past season were an outstanding performance, it’s his accuracy and ability to perform under pressure that set him apart from other draft QBs like OSU’s Will Howard and Texas’ Quinn Ewers.

In his three college football seasons, he recorded 124 touchdowns to just 27 interceptions. The way he struggled and thrived despite weak protection from the O-line only proves that he’s a franchise QB. No wonder he’s stirring the interest of several teams.

Exploring Shedeur Sanders’ draft interest 

Shedeur Sanders also met with the New York Giants, whose DC, Shane Bowen, is coaching the West team at the Shrine Bowl. The highly touted QB was seen spending a great and comfortable time with HC Brian Daboll, GM Joe Schoen, and assistant GM Brandon Brown. It wasn’t an official meeting, but it only shows the growing closeness between him and the Giants. But the Las Vegas Raiders aren’t out of the picture either. 

One of the main links to the Raiders would be Tom Brady, who is now a co-owner of the $6.2 billion franchise. After all, the NFL GOAT is a mentor to Shedeur Sanders, and they share a good relationship.

In fact, the Buffs QB has been dropping hints about his NFL future, fueling speculation about his landing spot. Last month, during the Alamo Bowl, he sported custom cleats in the iconic red and blue of the New York Giants, sparking a frenzy of rumors. But that’s not all. Back in December, he posted an Instagram video cruising past Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders, with the caption “Legendary.” These subtle moves have kept NFL fans scratching their heads!

But amidst all, it’s his confidence and belief in himself that’s admirable, as long as it doesn’t become conceited — “I know I am the most guaranteed risk you can take… I just know I am going to change a franchise and be happy to be the leader of a team.” At the end of the day, Shedeur Sanders is aware of where he currently stands. “I am just a player. I am thankful for whatever situation and whoever drafts me. I know I’ll be able to change their program,” he said. Now which team will be bold enough to bet on his full potential?