Scouting Report: Shilo Sanders (2024 Draft Class)

Shilo Sanders is an exciting safety prospect with a combination of athleticism, football IQ, and a strong football pedigree. As the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, he brings a unique blend of genetics and football knowledge to the field. After a collegiate journey that began at South Carolina then led him to Jackson State University, an HBCU, and continued at Colorado, Sanders has honed his skills and is ready to make an impact at the next level.

Vitals:
Position: Safety
School: Colorado
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 195 lbs

Athleticism:
Shilo Sanders possesses impressive athletic attributes that make him a standout safety prospect. He has the speed and agility to cover ground quickly, allowing him to roam the secondary effectively. Sanders’ explosiveness and quick reaction time enable him to close gaps and make plays on the ball. His natural athleticism is a key asset in his ability to cover receivers and contribute in run support.

Football IQ:
One of the most notable aspects of Shilo Sanders’ game is his high football IQ. Growing up in a football family and being mentored by his father Deion Sanders has given him a deep understanding of the game. Sanders demonstrates excellent field awareness, recognizing offensive schemes and making pre-snap adjustments. His ability to read quarterbacks’ eyes and anticipate routes contributes to his ball-hawking skills. Sanders is a student of the game, and it shows in his play.

Coverage Skills:
Sanders excels in coverage situations, whether it’s man-to-man or zone coverage. He has the footwork and hip flexibility to mirror receivers, making it difficult for them to gain separation. His ability to stay in phase with receivers allows him to contest passes effectively. Sanders also has strong ball skills, frequently getting his hands on the football to break up passes or create turnovers.

Tackling and Run Support:
In run support, Shilo Sanders is a sure tackler who takes proper angles to the ball carrier. Despite his leaner frame, he demonstrates excellent tackling technique and is willing to contribute in run defense. Sanders’ physicality and tackling ability make him an asset when stopping the run and providing run support from the safety position.

Player Comparison:
Shilo Sanders’ hard-hitting playing style and skill set draw comparisons to former NFL safety Ryan Clark. Like Clark, Sanders combines athleticism, football smarts, and strong coverage skills. Both safeties have a knack for reading the game, making plays on the ball, and providing valuable leadership in the secondary. Sanders has the potential to follow in Clark’s footsteps as a reliable safety at the next level.

Outlook:
Shilo Sanders is a promising safety prospect who brings a unique blend of athleticism, football IQ, and strong genetics to the field. His ability to excel in coverage, contribute in run support, and read the game make him a well-rounded safety with a bright future. With continued development, Sanders has the potential to make a significant impact in professional football, as a key starter or rotational piece for a contender.

Projected Draft Position: 4th Round

Note:Shilo is eligible for both the 2024 and 2025 draft class due to NCAA’s COVID year relief (student-athletes whose 2020-2021 season was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic will now get 6 years to compete in 4 full seasons of their sport in college.)