"It’s time for me to soar on my own": Shedeur Sanders jokes about dad Deion Sanders struggling with ‘Separation Anxiety’ during NFL draft process

In light of the time he spent ushering in the Colorado football revival under his father, Deion Sanders, Shedeur Sanders is now ready to rock on with his own NFL path. Seen as one of the quarterback jewels, he is considered a first-round lock by anyone and everyone. Following all his life under the watchful eye of his dad, during a conversation with Jane Slater of NFL Network, Shedeur playfully commented on his father's "separation anxiety." He also went on to say that, during pre-draft meetings, his father would amusingly ring in to speak to him.

Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders has officially begun his journey toward the 2025 NFL Draft, spending the past week at the East-West Shrine Bowl in Arlington, Texas. While he didn't take part in the practices or the game itself, Sanders used the opportunity to meet with key NFL personnel, including representatives from the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants—the teams holding the top three picks in April’s draft.

During the Shrine Bowl, NFL Network's Jane Slater caught up with Shedeur to discuss his experience interacting with NFL scouts. While many would expect the young quarterback to highlight an intense or eye-opening conversation with a team, he instead pointed to a much more personal moment—his father, Deion Sanders, constantly checking in on him throughout the week.
“My dad was calling me," Shedeur told Slater. "That was the most funniest thing, my dad was calling me. He has separation anxiety, he kept calling me. I said, ‘Look, Pops, it’s over with, it’s time for me to soar on my own now.’”
Having been coached by his father since high school—first at Trinity Christian School, then at Jackson State, and finally at Colorado—this marks a significant shift in their relationship. Deion, who has always been both a coach and a father figure, now faces a reality where his son is preparing to carve out his own NFL career.
Earlier this month, Deion acknowledged the emotional weight of coaching his first game at Colorado without his sons on the roster. While he embraced the moment as a professional opportunity, calling it an "emotional day", it’s clear that he remains deeply invested in his children's futures.

Beyond his off-field storylines, Shedeur Sanders has made his name as a top-tier quarterback prospect heading into the NFL Draft. His final season at Colorado was nothing short of stellar, as he led the nation in completion percentage (74%) while throwing for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns. His ability to command an offense, deliver accurate throws, and elevate his team's performance has positioned him among the best in this draft class.
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The debate over who will be the top quarterback selection will continue in the coming months, with Miami’s Cam Ward also making a strong case. However, Sanders' NFL-ready skill set, leadership, and experience in high-pressure situations make him a highly sought-after prospect. Wherever he lands, he will look to bring the same level of excellence and playmaking ability that made him a cornerstone of Colorado’s resurgence.