“Truly thankful”: Shedeur Sanders shows gratitude after Donald Trump calls out NFL over Browns QB's draft slide

Shedeur Sanders finally opened up about the overwhelming support he received after his unexpected drop in the 2025 NFL Draft, particularly addressing President Donald Trump's bold endorsement. While many questioned why the former Colorado quarterback wasn’t picked earlier, it was Trump’s vocal defense that grabbed headlines—and Sanders made sure to express his gratitude.The 23-year-old quarterback, who is the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, was widely expected to be one of the top three picks in the draft.But as the rounds progressed and his name remained uncalled, the NFL world watched in disbelief. It wasn’t until the fifth round that the Cleveland Browns traded up to select him 144th overall—a move that baffled many, including Trump.Taking to his Truth Social platform, Trump didn’t hold back:“What is wrong with NFL owners, are they STUPID?” he wrote on April 25. “Deion Sanders was a great college football player, and was even greater in the NFL. He’s also a very good coach, streetwise and smart!” Trump continued, “Therefore, Shedeur, his quarterback son, has PHENOMENAL GENES, and is all set for Greatness. He should be ‘picked’ IMMEDIATELY by a team that wants to WIN. Good luck, Shedeur, and say hello to your wonderful father!”This kind of public backing from a president—especially one known for his polarizing persona—sparked wide conversation across sports and political circles alike. But Sanders didn’t shy away from addressing it. During his rookie minicamp session with the Browns, he responded with maturity and humility."I was truly thankful for it," Sanders said, as quoted by the New York Post. "Including him, there were a lot of fans, a lot of people in barbershops, a lot of hairstylists." The quarterback added, "A lot of fans of me, my craft, and my family were there in support. I was thankful that I had that foundation."The overwhelming wave of fan reactions—ranging from social media outcry to community-level discussions—echoed Trump's sentiments. Many believed that Sanders’ delayed selection was unjustified, especially given his collegiate performances and the influence of his lineage.Sanders acknowledged this broader support with heartfelt words: “As people, we could all come together as one.” In an era where divisiveness often overshadows unity, his calm and gracious response felt refreshingly grounded.With his selection by the Browns, Sanders steps into a competitive and uncertain quarterback room. Veteran Deshaun Watson’s status for the season remains unclear after re-injuring his Achilles tendon, while the team has brought in several other quarterbacks—including Kenny Pickett via trade, and NFL veteran Joe Flacco on a one-year deal.The Browns also drafted Dillon Gabriel in the third round, which means the competition is stiff. Yet, for Shedeur, the challenge isn’t new. He’s faced scrutiny throughout his career, whether it's due to his famous last name or the public spotlight that follows him. But as he begins his professional journey in Cleveland, he does so with immense backing—from barbershops to former presidents.The spotlight is firmly on Shedeur Sanders now, and with a packed QB roster and a chip on his shoulder, he's poised to show the NFL exactly why Donald Trump and legions of fans stood by his side.Also Read: George Pickens wasn’t Jerry Jones’ first pick — Cowboys secretly wanted a Ravens standout instead