As far as the transition from college football to the NFL is concerned, nothing can be predicted. In this case, J.J. McCarthy stands as an ideal example who has been hailed as being a top prospect in the 2024 NFL draft but ended up being drafted late.

Now that Shedeur stands as the upcoming top prospect in the 2025 NFL draft, there are high chances of the Colorado Buffaloes quarterback undergoing the same fate. However, a change in the latest NCAA rules may come to Shedeur’s rescue. 

Will the NCAA’s new rule turn in favor of Sanders?

On the David Talks Buffs podcast, the host pointed out how McCarthy ticked all the checkboxes to secure a top position. According to the host, “He could identify coverages, he has worked in a hurdle, at least at some parts of his time at Michigan, so he could call players, he could call protection”. However, McCarthy’s fate has been decided as the No. 10 pick in round 1 as he landed in the Minnesota Vikings. Since Michigan Wolverines is known for their strong offense, somewhere McCarthy’s talents went unnoticed.

As Shedeur walks on the same path as McCarthy, he can have a safety barrier. As pointed out by the host, “Thanks to the new rules in college football this year, Shedeur is gonna a have an earpiece in his helmet and Pat Shurmur can call his plays”. With Shurmur’s constant guidance, Shedeur will be on the right track to gain the limelight. 

Pat-Shedeur bond goes strong

Following a sign-stealing scandal that rocked the sport and hung over Michigan’s championship run, the college football committee has finally approved of coach-to-player helmet communications in games on April 20. The rule will be valid from the 2024 season itself. Only one player for each team will be permitted to be in communication with coaches during on-field action. Till last season, coach-player live communication was only permitted if both sides agreed. There no longer remains such a clause. 

In this case, the Buffaloes stand at an advantageous position. Even though Shurmur has recently been promoted as Colorado’s offensive coordinator, Shedeur has picked up a strong bond with the OC. “He understands me as a person, I feel like that’s the main thing with anybody. You got to have somebody that understands you, somebody that you don’t have to change or you don’t have to act any type of way… Coach Pat, we have a great relationship. He understands me, he accepts me for who I am. I feel like that’s the most important thing,” proudly stated the Buffs quarterback.

In that case, the Pat-Shedeur chemistry will take the gridiron by fire as the OC will be guiding the quarterback with every step against the rival. This would ensure him to stand out among his teammates as well. Even though only one player will be allowed to wear the helmet to be in touch with Shurmur, no wonder it will be none other than Shedeur Sanders.