Shedeur Sanders' NFL Draft Slide Sparks Fiery Race Debate: 'Feels Like Kaepernick Redux'

Shedeur Sanders’ unexpected tumble in the NFL Draft has kicked up a storm of controversy—and not just over his football skills. While Sanders himself turned to faith and family during the nerve-racking wait, the world outside his living room was busy tearing itself apart over whether race played a role in his draft day drama.

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith added rocket fuel to the debate by revealing a text message comparing Sanders’ slide to Colin Kaepernick’s infamous NFL exile, suggesting that the issue goes way beyond talent evaluation. Smith didn’t shy away from the parallel, warning that what happened to Sanders could overshadow the entire draft. In his words, "This feels like Kaepernick-level collusion." If there’s one thing Smith can do, it’s make sure nobody’s scrolling past the controversy.

Not everyone was buying it. Barstool’s Dave Portnoy called the race angle "insane," arguing that NFL owners would sell their grandmothers for a winning quarterback—no matter the color of their skin. He pointed out that the first QB taken was Miami’s Cam Ward, who is Black, and said, "If teams thought Shedeur could help them win, they’d draft him. Every other narrative is fantasy." Say what you want about Portnoy, but he never misses a chance to keep things spicy.

Meanwhile, former congressman Jamaal Bowman lobbed his own grenade, accusing the NFL of fearing "strong Black men" and dismissing Sanders for his gold chains and outspoken style. Bowman’s post was quickly flagged with a community note, reminding everyone that Black quarterbacks have been the top picks in the last three drafts. Looks like facts are trying to keep up with feelings—good luck with that.

Conservative commentator Matt Walsh took to social media to mock Bowman, while ESPN radio host Peter Rosenberg dove deep into America’s complicated history with "brash" Black athletes. Rosenberg argued that, whether or not race was a factor this time, the conversation was impossible to avoid. TNT Sports’ Stan Becton even suggested the New York Giants skipped Sanders out of bias, but that theory took a hit when it was noted they already have two Black quarterbacks on their roster. When the receipts come out, the internet never forgets.

Others, like conservative influencer Robbie Starbuck, rolled their eyes at the racism claims, insisting the NFL is more afraid of "the circus" around Sanders than his background. Starbuck pointed out that the best quarterback in the league is half Black and that teams want one thing: wins. Can’t argue with the scoreboard.

Interestingly, the Sanders family themselves stayed above the fray, posting Bible verses and gratitude instead of grievances. And when Shedeur was finally selected, their celebration at home was pure joy—no politics, just pride. Sometimes, the best response is just to keep it moving and enjoy the win.