"That's what makes him the best QB": NFL draft analyst highlights $6.5M-NIL-valued Shedeur Sanders' "secret sauce" while comparing him to Cam Ward

There's a lot of hype around Shedeur Sanders ahead of the 2024 NFL draft. The quarterback is projected to be the first player in his position off the board, per the draft experts. He's also seen as the likely No. 1 pick in the draft with teams needing a quarterback at the top.

On Thursday, Todd McShay offered his view on Shedeur Sanders' ability. Speaking on “The Todd McShay Show,” the analyst explained why the Colorado standout is the best quarterback in the draft. This obviously makes him a coveted prospect among NFL teams.

“If I'm being honest, Shedeur is kind of average overall tool,” McShay said. “[He has] an average arm, but it's plenty good enough to be successful at the next level. Better athlete in terms of extending pocket presence and he is a runner.”

“Too many chances with the ball at times – drifts in the pocket … His instincts, his processing ability. That's his special sauce. That's what makes him the best quarterback in this class. So, hammer that hole.”

Todd McShay explains why Shedeur Sanders edges out Cam Ward

Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward are two of the best quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL draft. Both considered early first-round picks, the two have been compared in many quarters ahead of the draft. Several experts have offered their opinions on their draft possibilities.

Todd McShay explains why Sanders, who has a $6.5 million NIL value according to On3, has an edge over Ward on Thursday. While he admits both quarterback has what it takes to succeed on the professional stage, he believes the Colorado star is the better quarterback of the two.

“Cam Ward has better tools than Shedeur,” McShay said. “But from the neck up – I want to make sure we're clear on this. I think Cam's an okay processor. I think he's fine, and I think he'll continue to develop. But from the neck up, Shedeur is a high-level processor.”

“He doesn't get mentally sped up. I kept saying he doesn't speed up. Sometimes that gets him in trouble because everything's slow for him because he processes things so quickly. Sometimes he gets himself into trouble because he thinks there's more there.”

Shedeur Sanders threw for 3,926 yards and 35 touchdowns for the Buffaloes during the 2024 season. Cam Ward, on the other hand, threw for 4,123 yards and 36 touchdowns. The two quarterbacks will hope to replicate their performance in the NFL.