With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching and Shedeur Sanders continuing to polarize analysts and fans alike, at least one college coach who’s faced him has no doubt about where he should land — and it’s in the biggest spotlight in football.
Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule, who squared off against Sanders and Colorado last season, told ESPN’s Pete Thamel that he would take Sanders with the No. 3 overall pick — the exact position currently held by the New York Giants.
“I would take him No. 3 overall. Without a question,” Rhule said.
Rhule isn’t just making a surface-level case for Sanders based on stats. He’s drawing from firsthand experience and what he believes is a rare combination of toughness, poise, and preparation for the NFL’s brightest lights.
“I think he’s tough. You can quote me on this. This is how strong I feel,” Rhule said. “He took 12 hits against us. Twelve hits. There were seven sacks. He’s accurate, smart. Sees coverages. Can run if he has to. He’s gone to two places that haven’t won — and they won.”
The Nebraska coach, who spent time with the New York Giants as an assistant in 2012, believes the franchise’s demanding market is exactly where Sanders would thrive.
“Here’s why — to me, he’s the guy who can handle the spotlight in New York,” Rhule continued. “He’s the only person raised from [childhood] to know how to handle the spotlight.”
It’s that upbringing — and the presence of Deion Sanders throughout his life — that Rhule says gives Shedeur a rare edge, particularly when looking at the storied history of quarterbacks who’ve succeeded in the Big Apple.
“Who are some of the greatest-ever QBs in New York? Broadway Joe and Eli Manning,” Rhule said. “Shedeur was trained at the foot of his dad. He’s got a completely different demeanor. The spotlight there is so large. I think he’ll crush it.”
Whether or not the Giants agree remains to be seen. With veteran Russell Wilson and backup Jameis Winston now on the roster, they don’t need to reach for a quarterback. But if Sanders is available when they’re on the clock at No. 3, Rhule believes the decision should be a no-brainer.
In a draft class full of question marks, Rhule sees one thing clearly: Shedeur Sanders is built for New York — and ready to lead.