Fan Sues NFL for $100M Over Shedeur Sanders’ Draft Slide, Cites Emotional Trauma
One fan is taking Shedeur Sanders’ draft-day drama personally.
According to a lawsuit filed earlier this month in Georgia and reviewed by PEOPLE, an unnamed NFL fan claims the 23-year-old quarterback’s unexpected slide during the 2025 NFL draft caused them “emotional distress and trauma.”
The plaintiff is suing the league for damages, alleging the draft-day outcome was the result of “slanderous statements,” “collusion,” and possible “racial discrimination” that unfairly hurt Sanders’ stock--and, in turn, their emotional well-being as a devoted fan.
The fans described themselves as a “dedicated follower of Colorado football” who traveled to see Sanders play in 2023 and consumes media about him regularly.
The lawsuit pointed to “leaked statements” describing Sanders as “too cocky,” claiming they “contributed to a narrative that has unjustly harmed his reputation and potential as a player.”
“These slanderous statements reflect biases that influenced the NFL’s decision-making process,” the lawsuit reads. It also alleges the quarterback’s fall in the draft showed “collusion among NFL teams” and suggests that “racial discrimination” may have played a role.
As draft day unfolded, Sanders—once projected as a potential top-3 pick—watched his name tumble further down the board while quarterbacks like Cam Ward, Jaxson Dart, and Dillon Gabriel moved ahead. He was ultimately drafted at No. 144 overall by the Cleveland Browns.
“The NFL’s actions and the dissemination of slanderous statements have caused severe emotional distress and trauma to the Plaintiff, resulting in frustration, disappointment, and psychological harm as a fan,” the lawsuit claims.
Following the draft, Shedeur’s father, Deion Sanders, shared a video from their family’s draft party. In it, Shedeur admitted, “We all didn’t expect this,” but called the experience “fuel to the fire.” Shedeur also kept it short and faithful on social media: “Thank you, GOD.”
Whether the NFL responds to the lawsuit—or if it even gets past the initial filing stage—remains to be seen.
