ESPN NFL draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. was criticized again for favoring Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders over others, including the first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

NFL Draft wrapped three weeks ago, but Shedeur Sanders’ shocking slide to the fifth round — and the way experts reacted to his selection — is still drumming up controversy. ESPN analyst Mel Kiper, who was among Sanders’ most vocal advocates and openly expressed his surprise at the QB’s ongoing availability throughout the draft broadcast,

Although Ward landing with the Titans had long been a lock, much of Kiper’s draft commentary was centered on Shedeur, even after the Giants — who had done the most homework on Sanders’ son — traded back into the first round to select Ole Miss QB Jaxson Dart at No. 25 overall.