CLEVELAND BROWNS
Cleveland Browns

Malik Nabers ionately defends Shedeur Sanders after surprising draft snub

The Giants took Jaxson Dart in the first round, but Nabers insists Sanders should have never fallen to the fifth

Shedeur Sanders
Shedeur SandersLAPRESSE

NFL Draft night always brings fireworks, but few expected the emotional aftermath surrounding quarterback Shedeur Sanders. While the New York Giants made headlines by selecting Jaxson Dart with the 25th overall pick, it was the omission of Sanders until the fifth round that triggered one of the most vocal reactions, this time from within the Giants' own locker room.

Wide receiver Malik Nabers, fresh off a breakout rookie season, didn't hold back. On a recent podcast appearance, he expressed disbelief over the draft outcome: "There's no way in hell he should go in the fifth round." His frustration wasn't just about talent left on the table, it was about what Sanders represents, and how the league seemed to look the other way.

Shedeur Sanders starts spending big money at a huge party

"Feels like an attack on Prime"

The conversation quickly touched a deeper nerve when one of the podcast hosts said what many were thinking: "It feels like an attack on Prime." That comment referred to NFL legend Deion Sanders, Shedeur's father, whose larger-than-life personality and commitment to changing the game at the collegiate level has polarized opinion across football circles.

Whether intentional or not, the optics of Sanders' dramatic slide didn't sit well with those closest to the action. For Nabers, who has caught es from Daniel Jones, Tommy DeVito and Drew Lock, the belief is simple-Shedeur was one of the top quarterbacks in this class, and his fall made no sense.

What this means for the Giants-and the Browns

With the addition of Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston and now Jaxson Dart, the Giants' quarterback room is crowded and competitive. Dart brings promise, but all eyes will be on him, especially if Sanders shines in Cleveland, where he now begins his pro career.

For Nabers, the message is clear: talent isn't always rewarded the way it should be. And sometimes, the best endorsements don't come from scouts-they come from teammates who've seen it firsthand.

As the season approaches, this story is far from over. Because in the NFL, doubt is often just fuel, and Shedeur Sanders has plenty to burn.

Cleveland Browns
Cleveland BrownsShedeur Sanders blew a $50 million bag-and Cris Carter says it's his own fault
NCAATravis Hunter is redefining what it means to be an NFL player