Where Will Shedeur Sanders Land?

As we inch closer to the 2025 NFL Draft, one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects to watch is Shedeur Sanders. The Colorado standout has all the tools to succeed at the next level—arm strength, football IQ, and composure under pressure—but his path to NFL stardom will depend heavily on where he lands. After evaluating team needs, draft order, and current rumors, three potential landing spots stand out.

1. Las Vegas Raiders (Pick No. 6)

For Shedeur Sanders to wind up in Las Vegas, one key domino would have to fall first: the Patriots selecting star running back Ashton Jeanty with the No. 4 pick. Jeanty is reportedly at the top of the Raiders’ draft board, and if he’s off the board by the sixth pick, Las Vegas could pivot to Sanders.

If Sanders does go to the Raiders, he’d enter a unique situation. Geno Smith just signed a two-year extension, which would likely make Sanders the backup in Year 1, with a potential path to starting duties by mid-to-late Year 2.

He’d walk into an offense with dynamic tight end Brock Bowers as the centerpiece. While that connection could be dangerous, the Raiders would still need to invest in wide receivers and a reliable running game to give Sanders the support he needs.

2. New Orleans Saints (Pick No. 9)

New Orleans might be the best fit for Sanders from a football standpoint. With Derek Carr facing a lengthy recovery from upcoming shoulder surgery—potentially sidelining him for all of 2025—the Saints are widely rumored to be targeting a quarterback in the first round.

If Sanders ends up in the Big Easy, he’ll immediately have a strong supporting cast. Veteran running back Alvin Kamara remains one of the league’s best checkdown options—a route Sanders excelled at during his time at Colorado. Out wide, the Saints feature deep-threat Rasheed Shaheed (coming back from a torn ACL) and slot weapon Chris Olave, who would likely emerge as Sanders’ No. 1 target.

Unlike at Colorado, where Sanders played behind a shaky offensive line, New Orleans offers at least a middle-tier unit—enough to give him time to make decisions in the pocket. With the Saints’ combination of offensive weapons and a moderately stable line, Sanders could hit the ground running in Year 1.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers (Pick No. 21)

While not the flashiest option, Pittsburgh might offer Sanders the most promising long-term situation. The Steelers made a big splash this offseason by acquiring DK Metcalf to pair with George Pickens, giving them one of the most talented wide receiver duos in the NFL.

What makes this even more intriguing is the possibility of Sanders learning under a future Hall of Famer. The Steelers are reportedly in the mix to sign Aaron Rodgers for a one-year deal. If that happens, Sanders would get the chance to absorb the game behind Rodgers for a season before taking over the reins in Year 2. Given the stylistic similarities between the two—poise, accuracy on the move, and the ability to extend plays—this mentorship could be invaluable.

Even if Rodgers doesn’t sign with Pittsburgh (with Minnesota rumored to be another possible destination), Sanders could still step in as the Week 1 starter, with Mason Rudolph being the only real competition.

Add to that the leadership of head coach Mike Tomlin and the league’s top-tier defense, and you have a situation where Sanders wouldn’t have to win shootouts to win games. That’s the kind of stability that could help his NFL career flourish.

So, where will Shedeur land?
Will it be the bright lights of Vegas, the welcoming setup in New Orleans, or the long-term play in Pittsburgh? Each scenario presents unique challenges and opportunities.

Tell us your pick in the comments—and don’t forget to tune into the NFL Draft on Thursday night at 8 PM to see where Shedeur Sanders’ journey to the pros begins.