A Pro Football Hall of Famer Explains Where Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders and Miami’s Cam Ward Should Aim to Go in the Draft
The 2024 NFL Draft is fast approaching, and among the names being discussed as potential first-round picks are two quarterbacks who have caught the eyes of football fans and analysts alike: Shedeur Sanders from the University of Colorado and Cam Ward from the University of Miami. As rising stars in college football, both quarterbacks have showcased remarkable talent and potential, making them two of the most intriguing prospects for the upcoming draft. But where exactly should they aim to go in the draft, and which NFL teams would be the ideal fit for each player?
To gain some insight into this question, we turn to the expertise of a Pro Football Hall of Famer who has seen it all in the world of football. With a deep understanding of the game and the intricacies of the draft process, the Hall of Famer sheds light on where Sanders and Ward should target for their future in the NFL.
Shedeur Sanders: The Bright Future of Colorado
Shedeur Sanders, the talented quarterback at Colorado, has been making waves in college football ever since he stepped onto the field. As the son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, Shedeur has been under a microscope from day one, and he’s not only lived up to the hype—he’s exceeded it. Known for his strong arm, ability to read defenses, and calm under pressure, Sanders has become one of the top quarterbacks in college football, leading Colorado to impressive victories.
However, despite his success, Sanders is still a relatively unpolished prospect, and his path to the NFL draft is closely watched. To get a better understanding of his draft prospects, we turn to the Hall of Famer, who has a keen eye for identifying quarterback talent.
Ideal Draft Position for Shedeur Sanders
The Hall of Famer suggests that Sanders is a highly talented quarterback who could realistically land somewhere between the mid-to-late first round of the 2024 draft, depending on his continued development and the needs of the teams at the time. “Sanders has the tools you want in a quarterback—size, arm strength, poise,” the Hall of Famer explains. “But the next step for him will be refining his mechanics and getting more comfortable making quick decisions under pressure. He’s shown flashes, but consistency will be key.”
Given his upside, the Hall of Famer believes Sanders could be a highly valuable pick for a team that is looking to either develop a young quarterback or provide a potential starter for the future. Teams with an established quarterback who can mentor Sanders while he adapts to the NFL level would be an ideal fit.
One team that could be a good match for Sanders, according to the Hall of Famer, is the Minnesota Vikings. “The Vikings are in a situation where they have an established quarterback in Kirk Cousins, but he isn’t getting any younger,” the Hall of Famer notes. “They could use a young prospect like Sanders to develop behind Cousins for a few years. That would give Sanders the time he needs to work on his game, but also step into a system with a veteran presence.”
Additionally, Sanders would thrive in a system that values his ability to read defenses and use his mobility to extend plays. The Atlanta Falcons, with their young offensive coordinator and a promising defense, could also be a team to watch. While Atlanta currently has Desmond Ridder at quarterback, they could be intrigued by Sanders’ raw talent and upside, potentially making a move to draft him if they feel he is the future of the position.
Cam Ward: Miami’s Rising Star
Cam Ward, the Miami quarterback, is another name that is generating significant buzz in the lead-up to the 2024 NFL Draft. Ward’s performance for the Hurricanes has demonstrated his potential as a high-level quarterback, and many scouts believe he could become one of the top passers of his draft class. Known for his strong arm and ability to make every throw in the book, Ward also possesses a quick release and solid decision-making, making him a dangerous weapon in both the short and deep passing game.
While Ward has all the physical tools required to succeed in the NFL, the Hall of Famer points out that there are areas of his game that will need refinement, especially when it comes to decision-making under pressure. “Ward has the physical talent to succeed at the next level, but like Sanders, he will need to work on his decision-making and improve his consistency,” the Hall of Famer notes. “The physical ability is there; now it’s about tightening up his mental game.”
Ideal Draft Position for Cam Ward
As with Sanders, Ward’s draft prospects remain fluid, but the Hall of Famer believes that Ward could also fall within the mid-to-late first-round range or potentially early second round. “Ward has the talent to go higher, but his development will be key to where he ultimately lands,” the Hall of Famer says. “Teams looking for a quarterback to either develop or step in immediately could be highly interested.”
One team that could be an excellent landing spot for Ward is the Indianapolis Colts. After drafting quarterback Anthony Richardson in 2023, the Colts are still in the early stages of their rebuild, but they could use a backup quarterback with high upside like Ward. “The Colts are a team looking to build their offense around a young quarterback,” the Hall of Famer observes. “Ward could fit in well as someone to develop behind Richardson. He has the physical tools, and the Colts’ offense could benefit from his strong arm and mobility.”
Another intriguing option for Ward could be the Tennessee Titans, who are currently in a transition period at the quarterback position. With veteran Ryan Tannehill on the roster but likely nearing the end of his tenure, Ward could provide a potential long-term solution at the position. “Ward could be an excellent fit in Tennessee,” the Hall of Famer says. “He’s got the ability to make big throws, and if they don’t feel Tannehill is the answer long-term, Ward could step into a starting role after a year of development.”
Comparison of Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward
While both Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward possess significant talent, their paths to the NFL are slightly different in terms of style and readiness. Sanders is a dynamic playmaker with excellent poise, but his mechanics and decision-making need further refinement before he’s ready to take on the NFL. Ward, on the other hand, is a powerful thrower with excellent physical tools but must work on his consistency and mental game to become a reliable starter in the NFL.
In terms of their ideal landing spots, the Hall of Famer notes that both players could benefit from being drafted by a team with an established veteran quarterback who can mentor them during their transition to the NFL. However, both quarterbacks also have the potential to make an immediate impact, and teams that are in need of a franchise quarterback could take a chance on one of them earlier in the draft.