Shedeur Sanders opens up on hate he receives, says ‘99% of hatred’ is actually directed at dad Deion

As Shedeur Sanders starts his NFL journey with the Cleveland Browns, the young quarterback finds himself entangled in a web of criticism that, according to him, has more to do with his famous last name than his own play. The former Colorado standout and 2025 fifth-round pick is determined to change that narrative.Speaking to reporters during the Browns' rookie minicamp, Shedeur Sanders candidly addressed the scrutiny he faces and attributed much of it to his father, Deion Sanders, a Hall of Fame cornerback and current head coach at Colorado."Ninety-nine percent of hatred is towards Pops," Sanders said. "I'm just his son, so it really just comes from that and I told him that."His comments point to an unusual burden—being judged not just for what he does on the field but for who raised him. Sanders believes this wave of criticism is mostly generational, coming largely from older fans who associate him with his father’s outsized personality. "It's the older generation that do it to me rather than the younger people because when I come in person, there's no negativity I see but it's all over online," he explained.His draft-day slide became one of the most talked-about stories of 2025. Despite an impressive college career, Sanders fell to the fifth round and was even passed over by his own team, which had already taken Dillon Gabriel in the third. Many analysts speculated that Deion Sanders’ polarizing presence may have played a role in his son's diminished draft stock.Now entering a Browns quarterback room crowded with names like Deshaun Watson, Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, and Gabriel, Shedeur has no shortage of competition. Yet, for the first time, he stands without the immediate influence of his father—who coached him from high school through Jackson State and Colorado.His NFL debut will be the true test of his ability to rise beyond the shadow of Deion’s “Prime Time” legacy. While the college spotlight followed Shedeur wherever he went, the NFL presents a clean slate—an opportunity for the younger Sanders to earn respect through action rather than pedigree.In an effort to connect directly with fans and shed the preconceived notions surrounding his name, Sanders has already begun visiting schools in the Cleveland area. The initiative is not just about community engagement—it’s a subtle yet firm statement that he wants to be known for who he is, not just whose son he is.While criticism may be inevitable, Sanders appears ready to take it all in stride. His story isn’t just about football—it’s about identity, perseverance, and a young athlete striving to separate his own legacy from one of the game’s most iconic names. For Shedeur Sanders, this NFL chapter is more than a career move—it’s a chance to finally step out of the shadow and into his own spotlight.Also Read: Shedeur Sanders looks sharper than Dillon Gabriel at Browns rookie minicamp day 1