Former NFL GM Scot McCloughan made a striking prediction about Cleveland Browns quarterback, and others have expressed similar views.
During an appearance on The Pacman Jones Show, McCloughan strongly praised top stars’ leadership, skill, and drive, drawing comparisons to Super Bowl champion quarterback Russell Wilson.
Former NFL GM Scot McCloughan confidently stated, “He’ll be the best quarterback in this draft. When it’s all said and done, he’ll be the best QB out of this draft.”
McCloughan’s views hold significant influence in NFL circles. With over 20 years of experience in scouting and personnel management, he’s been the GM for the San Francisco 49ers and Washington Commanders. He also played a key role in building the Seattle Seahawks team that won Super Bowl XLVIII and helped select Russell Wilson in the third round of the 2012 draft.
McCloughan pointed out that Sanders is facing some of the same doubts Wilson encountered early on. Both quarterbacks had strong college performances but were questioned because of their size and playing style. Wilson, despite winning the Orange Bowl at Wisconsin, was seen as undersized and unconventional for the NFL.
According to McCloughan, it’s media hype—not actual game film or interviews—that caused Sanders to slip in the draft.
“They did the same thing with Russell,” McCloughan said. “They got caught up in the noise, said ‘he’s too short,’ and we ended up winning back-to-back Super Bowls.”
What convinced McCloughan most about Sanders was seeing his leadership in person. He recounted watching a Colorado game last fall where Sanders held his teammates accountable, even pushing back when a teammate, Travis Hunter, showed visible frustration after a missed play.
“\[Shedeur] has enough toughness and competitiveness to earn his teammates’ respect,” McCloughan said.
For McCloughan, the key difference between future NFL starters and those who fade away is the ability to stay focused, lead, and push teammates to be better.
As a scout not tied to any team or media outlet, McCloughan’s assessment comes from experience and attention to true football traits—just as it did with Russell Wilson in Seattle.
It’s a compelling endorsement, but in the end, we’ll have to wait and see how it all plays out.