A $100 Million Lawsuit Has Been Filed On Behalf of Shedeur Sanders
The NFL Draft took place a few weeks ago, and some of the best college football players in the country found out where they would be playing football to begin their NFL careers.
Former Miami quarterback Cam Ward was the No. 1 overall pick by the Tennessee Titans, followed by two-way star Travis Hunter and the Jacksonville Jaguars. The top of the draft was fairly predictable, but the same can't be said for where Shedeur Sanders fell.
Sanders was finally selected on Day 3 of the draft, in the fifth round with pick No. 144. Many had him projected as a first round pick, including one fan who is taking legal action against the league.
“Despite Sanders’ demonstrated skills and significant attention during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, the NFL drafted him at the 144th pick during the 2025 NFL Draft,” said a complaint filed in Georgia's federal court.
The fan describes themselves as "fan of Colorado football," and alleged that collusion between teams and the NFL is "causing emotional distress and trauma" to fans like him.
The plaintiff in the lawsuit is seeking “formal acknowledgment from the NFL regarding the emotional distress caused by their actions and statements,” as well as $100 million in damages and retractments of what the plaintiff calls "slanderous statements" against Sanders.
Ultimately, the suit aims to result in "fairer practices in the drafting process to ensure that talented players are recognized and given opportunities based on merit.”
The lawsuit was filed "in forma pauperis," which allows those without the means to pay for legal fees the ability to participate in the justice system. It also allows the courts to examine the potential frivolity of the lawsuit, which could spell bad news for the plaintiff.
Sanders will be expected to compete for the starting quarterback job with the Browns this season. If he earns the position and plays well, he can put many of the problems and concerns about his ability to adjust to the NFL.
As for the lawsuit, we'll see if the state of Georgia is prepared to accept it as legitimate when there are far more important matters to address in the state legislature.