Dallas, Texas — Shedeur Sanders experienced an unexpected moment during the NFL Draft on Friday night while gathering with family to watch the event unfold at his father Deion Sanders’ home. Just before the New Orleans Saints announced their selection with the 40th pick, Shedeur received a surprising call from an individual claiming to be Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis.
The conversation, captured on video by Deion Sanders Jr.’s Well Off Media, began with Loomis expressing excitement about drafting the young quarterback. However, the cheerful tone quickly shifted when the caller revealed it had been a prank, leaving Shedeur bewildered. He noted that the phone he used to receive the call was freshly acquired, with the number only shared with NFL teams, further adding to his confusion.
“Why get mad? They want you to have a certain type of reaction,” Shedeur remarked in the video, referring to the orchestrated prank. “But I ain’t trippin’.” Just moments later, the Saints officially chose Louisville quarterback Tyler Shough, prompting a mixed reaction from those watching closely.
Deion Sanders, who sat astounded on the sofa, could only shake his head in disbelief. “Wow,” he said, reflecting the weight of the emotional rollercoaster they experienced that evening. Shedeur later celebrated alongside his brother, Shilo Sanders, who is also in pursuit of an NFL career after playing together at Jackson State and Colorado.
Shedeur, named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, had his No. 2 jersey retired by the Colorado Buffaloes just days earlier during their spring game. Although viewed as a possible first-round selection, he remained undrafted as the final day of selections approached, raising concerns among family and supporters.
Deion expressed hope in the wake of the prank, stating he believed it was only a matter of time before his son’s talents would shine through. “This is to the point now where it’s like, ‘Hey man, y’all gotta stop,’” he said, underscoring the tensions of the draft process.
As the weekend progressed, Shedeur took to social media, sharing a message of resilience and readiness. “Another day, another opportunity to get a chance to play the game I love,” he posted, reflecting his determination to rise above the uncertainty.
With the final rounds of the draft approaching, the Sanders family remains optimistic, holding onto their faith as Shedeur awaits the opportunity to showcase his skills on a professional stage.