Shedeur Sanders: Believes He Is the Best of Tom Brady and Michael Vick, Enters 2025 NFL Draft
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, one name that has already begun to spark significant attention is Shedeur Sanders, the standout quarterback from Jackson State University. Sanders, known for his strong arm, mobility, and leadership skills, is confident that he possesses a unique combination of traits that could rival two of the most iconic quarterbacks in NFL history—Tom Brady and Michael Vick.
In an exclusive interview ahead of his entry into the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders opened up about his mindset and the legacy he intends to leave behind. He boldly declared that he believes his playing style and abilities encapsulate the best elements of both Tom Brady’s football IQ and Michael Vick’s dynamic athleticism.
“I’ve always had a deep respect for both Tom Brady and Michael Vick,” Sanders said. “Brady’s football mind, his ability to read defenses, and his leadership on the field are things I’ve tried to incorporate into my own game. On the other hand, Vick’s athleticism, ability to make plays with his legs, and his arm strength—those are attributes that I’ve worked hard to develop in myself as well. I believe I’m a combination of the best parts of both of them.”
A New Generation of Quarterback
Shedeur Sanders is the son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, a legend who played both cornerback and wide receiver in the NFL. Known for his multi-sport talents, Deion Sanders has had a significant influence on his son, both in terms of athletic development and mindset. Shedeur’s decision to follow in his father’s footsteps and play football was clear from a young age, and his performances at Jackson State University have confirmed his potential to be a game-changer at the professional level.
The younger Sanders is often praised for his poise in the pocket, incredible arm strength, and the ability to read defenses, which were key to his success at Jackson State. But it is his unique combination of mobility and leadership that has drawn comparisons to both Brady and Vick. While Brady is known for being a pocket passer who could carve up defenses with his intellect and accuracy, Vick was the prototype for a dual-threat quarterback with speed and a cannon for an arm.
Sanders’ ability to blend those two styles could make him an intriguing prospect in the 2025 draft, especially as the NFL continues to evolve toward more mobile quarterbacks who can make plays both in the air and on the ground.
Brady’s Influence: The Mental Game
Tom Brady’s legendary career has been built on his unparalleled understanding of the game, his leadership, and his ability to execute under pressure. These are qualities that Sanders admires and strives to emulate. The discipline and football IQ that Brady displayed throughout his career—whether it was his ability to read defenses, his precision in passing, or his clutch performances in the postseason—are all attributes that Sanders has spent years refining.
“I take a lot from Brady’s approach to the game,” Sanders continued. “He’s not the most athletic quarterback ever, but his understanding of the game is second to none. He knows where the ball needs to go, he understands what defenses are doing, and he gets the ball out fast. I try to do the same, be smart and efficient with every throw, and always be in control.”
While Sanders doesn’t claim to be as methodical as Brady, he certainly sees himself as someone who can pick up on defensive schemes and make the right decisions in the moment. His vision and decision-making on the field are already being praised by scouts as some of his most refined skills, even before entering the NFL.
Vick’s Influence: The Athletic Playmaker
On the flip side, Michael Vick’s legacy as one of the most electrifying dual-threat quarterbacks in NFL history has also influenced Sanders’ approach to the game. Vick’s ability to break out of the pocket and make plays with his legs was revolutionary in the NFL, and Sanders sees that aspect of his game as another essential tool for success at the next level.
“I admire what Mike Vick did for the position,” Sanders said. “He changed the way people view the quarterback position, showing that you can be an athletic playmaker and still dominate as a passer. I’ve worked on my mobility and footwork to make sure I can escape the pocket and make those plays when needed, just like Vick did.”
While Sanders may not be as fast or elusive as Vick, he has displayed a similar ability to extend plays with his legs, evade defenders, and throw deep downfield when the pocket breaks down. His combination of speed, agility, and arm strength could make him a nightmare for defenses who are unprepared for his dual-threat capabilities.
The Road to the NFL Draft
Sanders’ decision to enter the 2025 NFL Draft has already created a buzz, and NFL scouts are closely monitoring his performance as he prepares for the next level. While he still has a lot to prove, his confidence and unique skill set have made him a standout in college football, and many believe he has the potential to be a franchise quarterback in the NFL.
As Sanders prepares for the next chapter in his career, the comparisons to Brady and Vick will only continue to grow. However, he remains focused on carving out his own path and proving that he can be more than just a combination of two legends. With his combination of mental sharpness, leadership, athleticism, and playmaking ability, Sanders has the potential to become one of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch in the coming years.
A Bright Future Ahead
The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with Shedeur Sanders among the top prospects looking to make their mark in the league. Whether or not he ultimately lives up to his belief that he is the best of Tom Brady and Michael Vick remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: Sanders’ arrival in the NFL is sure to make waves, and his journey will be one that fans and analysts alike will be following closely.
As he continues to prepare for the draft, Sanders remains determined to prove that he is ready to be a top-tier quarterback in the NFL, blending the best elements of Brady’s mental game and Vick’s athleticism to become a truly unique force in professional football.