Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders made a bold statement ahead of what may be his final collegiate game by flaunting custom cleats featuring the logo and colors of the New York Giants. The Giants currently hold the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and Sanders’ choice of footwear seemed to signal his confidence in becoming their top selection. However, he ultimately took the field at the Alamo Bowl wearing plain black cleats, leaving the provocative message lingering in the air.

Sanders’ performance during the game did not match his swagger off the field. Facing Brigham Young University, the Buffaloes suffered a decisive 36-14 loss. Sanders completed 16 of 23 passes for 208 yards and two touchdowns but also threw two interceptions and recorded negative-34 rushing yards due to multiple sacks. The lackluster outing raises questions about whether Sanders can solidify himself as the draft’s top quarterback.

The Sanders family has been vocal about their belief in Shedeur’s prospects. Colorado head coach and NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders boldly predicted, “The Giants are not giving up that pick … Shedeur’s going to be the No. 1 pick.” Deion has even suggested Shedeur might emulate Eli Manning by refusing to play for a team he doesn’t favor, potentially forcing a trade. This confidence is striking but doesn’t align with current draft projections.

Recent mock drafts paint a more uncertain picture for Shedeur Sanders. Yahoo Sports’ latest projection placed Miami’s Cam Ward as the Giants’ top choice, with Sanders falling to the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 6. Although Sanders carries himself like a top pick, NFL scouts have yet to reach a consensus on his standing in a relatively weak quarterback class. Much remains to be proven before Sanders can secure the coveted No. 1 spot.

While Shedeur grabbed headlines, another Colorado star, Travis Hunter, showcased custom cleats honoring his recent Heisman Trophy win during the same game. As a two-way player with exceptional talent, Hunter is also a potential No. 1 pick, depending on which team earns the top selection. With both Sanders and Hunter in the mix, the 2025 NFL Draft promises intrigue as teams weigh their options and talent evaluations come into sharper focus.