Green Bay, Wisconsin — As the second day of the 2025 NFL Draft unfolded, some surprising omissions raised eyebrows, particularly the absence of quarterback Shedeur Sanders on any team’s roster. The speculation surrounding Sanders, son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, has intensified as expectations didn’t match reality following a standout college career at Colorado. After leading the Buffaloes to a remarkable nine wins in 2024, including significant improvements from a dismal previous season, his absence from the draft could stem from various factors, including perhaps lukewarm pre-draft evaluations.
The New Orleans Saints, in particular, faced scrutiny for opting to select Tyler Shough instead of Sanders. Though the Saints are in need of a reliable starter amid uncertainty surrounding Derek Carr, passing on Sanders, touted for his accuracy and poise under pressure, may haunt them long term. Analysts suggest the Saints’ desire for immediate answers might have overshadowed the potential long-term benefits of drafting Sanders.
In contrast, the Seattle Seahawks are already receiving accolades for their 2025 draft class after solid Day 2 selections. They fortified their offensive line with versatile first-round pick Grey Zabel and added a potential game-changer in quarterback Jalen Milroe, who has drawn comparisons to former MVP Lamar Jackson. Coach Mike Macdonald, having learned critical techniques from his experience with the Ravens, can cultivate Milroe’s raw talent, thus providing a sturdy fallback option should starter Sam Darnold falter.
The Cleveland Browns also made their mark on Day 2, capitalizing on key positions with linebacker Carson Schwesinger and running back Quinshon Judkins. The additions appear strategic as they seek to address glaring weaknesses, particularly in the wake of their recent quarterback vacancy. After moving the No. 2 pick to the Jaguars, the Browns seem poised to leverage their selections into immediate and long-term success, although they still face uncertainty regarding their signal-callers.
Over in New York, the Jets have positioned quarterback Justin Fields for a brighter future through calculated draft decisions. Their first-round pick, offensive tackle Armand Membou, addresses critical protection needs, while the acquisition of tight end Mason Taylor adds depth to an already potent offense. These moves come as a breath of fresh air for Fields, who previously struggled behind an inadequate line.
Meanwhile, in New England, quarterback Drake Maye appears to be on the verge of a breakout season, thanks in large part to a revamped offensive line and a roster bolstered with explosive talent. The Patriots have focused their draft strategy on giving Maye the tools needed to thrive, something that was notably lacking in his rookie campaign.
With the Arizona Cardinals taking a calculated risk by selecting Will Johnson in the second round, they could have a potential steal on their hands if Johnson’s health concerns are managed. The defense, under coach Jonathan Gannon, has welcomed several key veterans, creating a formidable unit that could redefine the team’s identity moving forward.
Amidst all the drafting flurry, the Pittsburgh Steelers prioritized immediate needs with strategically chosen players, including defensive tackle Derrick Harmon. The approach aligns with their intention to build a competitive team for the upcoming season while potentially missing out on opportunities to draft a quarterback like Sanders who may have offered higher long-term dividends.
As teams navigate the complexities of building their rosters, the decisions made in these early rounds will shape their futures. For some, the risk of passing on talent like Sanders might reverberate through years of rebuilding, while those seizing the moment could soon find themselves positioned for significant success in the increasingly competitive landscape of the NFL.