Fan files crazy $100M lawsuit over Shedeur Sanders’ draft slide
Shedeur Sanders’ NFL draft slide, already the top storyline of the 2025 draft, has spiraled into uncharted territory after a Colorado Buffaloes fan filed a $100 million lawsuit against the NFL, alleging “emotional distress and trauma” caused by the quarterback’s unexpected fall to the fifth round.
Unprecedented legal twist rocks draft narrative
Sanders, son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, was projected as a first-round lock but plummeted to the Cleveland Browns at No. 144. The plaintiff, identified as “John Doe,” claims the NFL and its teams colluded to tarnish Sanders’ reputation through “slanderous” pre-draft leaks. These included unverified reports that Sanders “tanked interviews,” acted “too cocky,” or arrived unprepared—allegations the lawsuit calls “defamatory” and damaging to fans who “invested emotionally” in his career.
Lawsuit alleges collusion, defamation in draft process
The 23-page filing accuses the NFL of violating the Sherman Antitrust Act by allegedly coordinating to suppress Sanders’ draft stock. It also cites breaches of the Civil Rights Act, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and consumer protection violations. “The NFL’s actions robbed Mr. Sanders of fair recognition and fans of their right to unbiased fandom,” the suit claims. CBS Sports insider Jonathan Jones noted Sanders’ slide reflected teams’ concerns about his “pre-draft conduct,” but the plaintiff argues the league weaponized narratives to justify the fall.
Plaintiff demands NFL accountability, systemic changes
Beyond the $100 million in punitive damages, the fan seeks a formal NFL apology, retraction of “false statements,” and reforms to ensure “merit-based” drafting. The suit also requests court oversight to prevent future “collusion,” a rare demand targeting the league’s opaque selection process.
Beyond the courtroom: A precedent for fan activism?
Legal experts call the case a “longshot,” but it underscores the blurred line between sports fandom and legal recourse. While Sanders focuses on competing for the Browns’ backup role, the lawsuit reframes his draft experience as a battle against institutional bias—a narrative resonating with fans who view his slide as inexplicable. Whether the courts agree or dismiss it as frivolous, the saga has already cemented Sanders’ draft night as one of the most surreal in NFL history.
