Deion Sanders is known for his legendary career as a two-sport athlete, excelling in both football and baseball. However, his greatest achievement is undoubtedly his two sons, Shedeur and Shilo, who have followed in their father’s footsteps and pursued careers in football.
But the 2025 NFL Draft was a tough one for the Sanders family. Shedeur, who was once projected to be a first-round pick, ended up being selected as the 144th pick. And to make matters worse, Shilo didn’t hear his name called at all.
It was a gut-wrenching experience for Deion to watch his sons go through such disappointment and heartache. As a father, he had always dreamed of seeing his sons succeed in the NFL, just like he did. But the reality was far from his expectations.
Shedeur had an impressive college career, with stats that would make any NFL team eager to draft him. But it wasn’t his performance on the field that caused him to slip down the draft board. It was something else entirely.
Former NFL player Ryan Clark exposed the ugly truth behind Shedeur’s draft position – the NFL’s agenda against the Sanders family. In a shocking revelation, Clark revealed that NFL teams were intentionally avoiding drafting Shedeur because of his last name.
This revelation left Deion hurt and frustrated. He couldn’t understand why the NFL would have an agenda against his sons. After all, they had worked hard and earned their place in the draft through their talent and dedication.
But instead of dwelling on the negativity, Deion chose to respond with a powerful message. In just four words, he summed up his feelings and showed the world that he won’t let this setback bring him down. Deion simply said, “I’m still proud, though.”
These words speak volumes about Deion’s character and the values he has instilled in his sons. He could have lashed out or made excuses, but instead, he chose to stay positive and proud of his sons’ achievements.
Deion’s response is a testament to his strength and resilience as a father and a role model. He has taught his sons to never give up, even in the face of adversity. And that is a valuable lesson that will serve them well in their future endeavors.
It’s also a reminder to all of us that success is not always measured by external validation or recognition. Shedeur and Shilo may not have been drafted as high as they hoped, but they have a loving and supportive family behind them, and that is worth more than any draft position.
Deion’s message also sheds light on the bigger issue of bias and discrimination in the NFL. It’s disheartening to see that even in today’s world, a player’s last name can affect their chances of being drafted. This needs to change, and it’s up to the NFL to address and rectify this issue.
But despite the disappointment and frustration, Deion’s sons have already shown that they have what it takes to succeed in the NFL. They have the talent, determination, and drive to prove their doubters wrong and make a name for themselves on the field.
And with Deion by their side, supporting and guiding them, there’s no doubt that Shedeur and Shilo will overcome this setback and emerge stronger than ever. As Deion said, “I’m still proud, though.” And that is all that matters in the end.
