Las Vegas, Nevada — Tom Brady expressed his surprise over Shedeur Sanders’ unexpected drop to the fifth round in the 2025 NFL Draft. The five-time Super Bowl MVP, who holds a minority ownership stake in the Raiders, clarified that he played no part in the decision-making process that led to Sanders being overlooked seven times before being selected by the Cleveland Browns at No. 144 overall.
During a recent episode of Logan Paul’s podcast “Impaulsive,” Brady reflected on the drafting of Sanders, a player initially projected as a top-three pick. When asked about the situation, he candidly stated, “It’s a good question. I wasn’t a part of any evaluation process.” His remarks came in response to co-host Mike Majlak’s reference to media claims suggesting otherwise.
The Raiders selected seven players in the draft, including Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty as their first-round choice at No. 6 overall. Brady’s own experience comes from being chosen as the 199th pick by the New England Patriots in 2000, a journey that eventually led him to an unparalleled career in the NFL.
“I reached out to Shedeur because I know him well,” Brady shared. “I told him that no matter where he lands, what matters most is what comes next. The second day of practice is more significant than the draft itself.” Drawing from his own path to success, he encouraged Sanders to use this moment as motivation and to recognize that opportunities would arise.
In addition to their first-round picks, the Raiders selected two quarterbacks in the sixth round: Tommy Mellott from Montana State at No. 213 and Cam Miller from North Dakota State just two picks later. While Brady was not directly involved in the draft, reports indicate he maintained constant communication with the team’s leadership and has a keen interest in Miller’s potential.
According to Raiders General Manager John Spytek, Brady was impressed by Miller’s mechanics and overall technique during their assessments. “He liked how he threw the ball, focusing on his motion and the mechanics from the ground up,” Spytek noted, emphasizing Brady’s faith in the young quarterback’s ability to develop further.
As Sanders begins his NFL career, his journey serves as a reminder that the draft does not define a player’s future. With guidance from one of the game’s greatest, he has the chance to turn a perceived setback into a stepping stone toward success in the league.