A Colorado Buffaloes fan, identified only as John Doe, has filed a $100 million lawsuit against the NFL. The suit alleges emotional distress caused by quarterback Shedeur Sanders’ unexpected fall to the fifth round in the 2025 NFL Draft. Sanders, once projected as a top-three pick, was selected 144th overall by the Cleveland Browns.
Doe’s lawsuit claims that negative media portrayals and alleged collusion among NFL teams unjustly harmed Sanders’ draft prospects. The complaint cites violations of the Sherman Antitrust Act and the Civil Rights Act, suggesting racial discrimination influenced the draft outcome. Doe is seeking punitive damages, a formal acknowledgment of emotional harm, retractions of slanderous statements, and reforms to ensure fairness in future drafts.
“The NFL must be held accountable for the emotional turmoil inflicted upon fans who witnessed this injustice,” the lawsuit states.
Controversy Surrounds Draft Process
Sanders’ draft experience was marred by reports of poor interview performances and questions about his demeanor. An anonymous NFL assistant coach described Sanders’ interview as “the worst” he had encountered, citing issues with body language and accountability. Additionally, a prank call during the draft process, later traced to the son of an NFL coach, added to the controversy.
Despite these challenges, Sanders’ college performance was notable. In his final season at Colorado, he threw for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns, earning the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year award. His fall in the draft has sparked discussions about potential racial biases and the influence of media narratives on player evaluations.
Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III criticized the Browns for drafting Sanders into a crowded quarterback room, stating, “They set him up to fail.” Griffin highlighted the team’s existing commitments to other quarterbacks, suggesting limited opportunities for Sanders to develop.
Public Reaction and Speculation
The lawsuit has generated mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a publicity stunt. Online speculation about the identity of “John Doe” includes humorous suggestions, such as Sanders’ father, Deion Sanders, or NFL analyst Mel Kiper.
The NFL has not issued a statement regarding the lawsuit. Legal experts anticipate the case may be dismissed, but it underscores ongoing concerns about fairness and transparency in the draft process.
As Sanders begins his professional career with the Browns, the implications of his draft experience continue to resonate within the football community.