As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, teams will have the opportunity to gather information at various pre-draft events. That starts with the East-West Shrine Bowl on Jan. 30 and the week of practices preceding the exhibition game.
New York Giants defensive coordinator Shane Bowen is coaching the West team, headlined by Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
However, Sanders has decided he won't be playing in the game. He'll be available for teams to interview and otherwise spend time with during the week.
Subsequently, a video of Giants decision-makers is turning heads after an innocuous meeting with Sanders.
In a video posted by Garrett Podell, Sanders was seen in a laid-back conversation with head coach Brian Daboll, general manager Joe Schoen, and assistant general manager Brandon Brown.
Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders catches up with the New York Giants brass at the Shrine Bowl. The NYG contingent included HC Brian Daboll, GM Joe Schoen and assistant GM Brandon Brown. pic.twitter.com/pgaq61nnTB
— Garrett Podell (@garrettpodell) January 25, 2025
It's not an official meeting, but it's another glimpse at what seems to be a comfortable relationship. Another video from the Shrine Bowl captured Daboll and Sanders dapping each other up and Schoen has gotten multiple in-person looks at the quarterback prospect.
While it isn't abundantly clear which prospect New York prefers, it's easy to believe the Giants would prefer Sanders falls to the No. 3 pick. With enough arm talent to check the box and an ability to limit turnovers, he's a straightforward fit for Daboll, who desperately needs an upgrade over Daniel Jones.
For now, though, Sanders' fate remains in the hands of the Tennessee Titans and Cleveland Browns. Both will pick before New York in April, and both could reasonably pick a quarterback in Round 1.
Unfortunately, fans won't get to see much from Sanders for the Shrine Bowl week. He was in street clothes on Saturday and, having opted out of the game, won't be practicing. But there's still time to boost his stock and separate himself from Miami's Cam Ward, even if it comes at the NFL Scouting Combine or his pro day.
