The Tennessee Titans hold the coveted first pick in the upcoming NFL draft, and speculation is swirling around Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders as a potential top selection. Former NFL star Shawne Merriman believes Sanders is a strong contender, though he acknowledges the top pick doesn't guarantee a team gets their desired player, drawing parallels to the Eli Manning-Philip Rivers draft saga of 2004.
Merriman recalls his own involvement in the Manning-Rivers trade, where the Giants ultimately landed Manning after he refused to play for the Chargers. The Giants' initial possession of the first pick even led to Shedeur Sanders receiving custom Giants cleats before his bowl game. However, a late-season Giants victory shifted their draft position, leaving them with the third overall pick.
Intriguingly, Merriman suggests that Deion Sanders, Shedeur's father and coach, might exert influence over his son's draft destination, similar to the Manning situation. He notes Deion's strategic public comments about teams needing to "tread lightly," hinting at a potential power play. Deion himself has addressed rumors about his sons' preferred landing spots, stating he'll communicate directly with relevant parties if necessary.
Merriman, whose production company will live stream the East-West Shrine Bowl practices, will have another opportunity to evaluate Sanders before the draft. He sees this as a significant venture, reflecting his passion for football and his transition into the media space.
While Sanders and Cam Ward are considered the top quarterback prospects, the Browns' ownership of the second pick adds an element of unpredictability. There's a possibility Sanders could still land with the Giants, a team with which his father has a connection through his baseball career with the Yankees. The Giants recently confirmed the return of their general manager and head coach, who have yet to draft a quarterback in their tenure.
