Deion Sanders isn’t just building a winning team for the 2024 Buffaloes, he’s laying the groundwork for a game-changing 2025. As per him, both his son, quarterback Shedeur Sanders, and star cornerback Travis Hunter are locked in for top selections in next year’s draft. Sanders wants them to have a say in where they land in the NFL, not the other way around. He’s even hinted that the stars might refuse to play for certain teams “pulling an Eli Manning”. 

This bold strategy has support from NFL legends like Keyshawn Johnson, who backed Sanders’ fight to ensure his son and Hunter land in the perfect NFL situation. The upcoming season is crucial for the Buffs, but the real prize for Coach Prime might be a historic power move in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Johnson backs Deion Sanders’ bold draft strategy

Former Pro Bowl-winning wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson recently shared his own experience, recalling how he wasn’t thrilled about potentially being drafted by the New York Jets in 1996. He felt the Jets didn’t treat him like the top prospect he was. Despite that, the Jets drafted him anyway. This experience fuels Johnson’s support for Deion Sanders as he says, “He [Deion] doesn’t want to set his kids up for failure.” Johnson emphasizes how the “surroundings are important”, especially for young quarterbacks who often get “thrown into the mix” without proper guidance.

Citing examples like the talented Justin Fields struggling with coaching changes, Johnson supports Sanders’ plan — “I’m with Prime 100%. Do what you need to do to get your son in the right position.” This bold strategy could redefine how players approach the NFL Draft, prioritizing fit over simply being the first pick.

Coach Sanders might follow Manning’s playbook

The NFL Draft landscape could be facing a slight shift due to Deion Sanders. Inspired by Eli Manning’s successful refusal to play for the San Diego Chargers in 2004, Sanders is hinting the same. The Colorado Buffaloes star players Shedeur, and Travis Hunter might do the same in the 2025 Draft. Deion Sanders has also openly expressed his desire for Shedeur to avoid “cold-weather” teams.

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Read More: “[Shedeur] Wouldn’t Have Been the 1st QB”: Deion Sanders Drops NFL Draft 2024 Prediction While Addressing Son’s Next Year’s Chances

However, pulling off an “Eli Manning” in the draft isn’t easy. Sure, Shedeur being a top quarterback in 2025 might give him the power to choose. But for Hunter, the cornerback, it’s uncharted territory. No non-quarterback has ever refused a team before. With both Shedeur and Hunter projected as top picks early in the first round, the next year is quite critical. Their draft stock will be under a microscope, revealing whether this “Eli” strategy works or not. If it does, it’d be a game-changer. Imagine an NFL Draft where players have more control over their futures! April 2025 could be a historic draft, marking a new era where players have a bigger say in where they play.

Read More: Deion Sanders Expresses Fatherly Concern for Son Shedeur’s NFL Future: “Don’t Want That for Him”