Here we go again with the ongoing issues within the NFL. Before the season even kicked off, the draft revealed an unsettling pattern of bias lurking beneath the league’s supposed commitment to unity. Once more, it’s evident that the team owners view their players not as valued individuals but as mere assets to manage under the guise of loyalty.
The harsh reality is that it all boils down to financial interests; a player without a team won't see those hefty paychecks that often lead to financial burdens. It’s a precarious situation: when the higher-ups issue directives about roster decisions, the underlying message is clear—keep certain players off the field, regardless of the justifications offered. The implications are profound, showing how intertwined financial power and player treatment are within the league. In this environment, it’s not just about performance but a calculated game of control.
For a couple of days, I found myself haunted by the ghost of Colin Kaepernick. Kaepernick, a name that resonates deeply in football, led the San Francisco 49ers to Super Bowl XLVII, where they faced off against the formidable Baltimore Ravens but ultimately fell short of victory. In 2016, his career took a dramatic turn when his peaceful protest against racial injustice and police brutality, symbolized by his decision to kneel during the National Anthem, captured national attention. Rather than confronting the uncomfortable truths highlighted by his actions, the NFL opted to release him from their ranks, avoiding the stigma of being labeled as racist.
Colin’s decision to kneel, rather than stand with his hand over his heart, was more than just a personal statement; it was a bold and courageous stand to raise awareness about systemic inequalities affecting people of color. However, this protest was met with fierce backlash, painted by many as unpatriotic and incendiary, igniting a firestorm of controversy across the nation. Since that fateful moment, not one of the thirty-two NFL teams has invited him to join their roster, a testament to how uneasy the truth made the league’s owners.
In the shadows of the sports world, whispers of collusion persisted, leading many to speculate about the underlying fears of the league’s leadership. The rising voices demanding justice and accountability were seen threatening the status quo—a modern echo of a restless uprising. Although no one would openly acknowledge any conspiracy, the NFL reached a quiet settlement out of court, leaving many questions unanswered and suspending the truth in ambiguity. His kneeling protests, meant to raise awareness about racial injustice and police brutality, generated intense controversy.
The echoes of history reverberated during the 2025 NFL Draft, particularly surrounding Shedeur Sanders, the promising quarterback from the Colorado Buffaloes. Expected to be the top pick on the first day, anticipation hung thick in the air, yet the reality turned out starkly different. As the draft unfolded over three grueling days, speculation began to swirl—was he being blacklisted?
Conversations ignited regarding his perceived brashness and self-assurance, with whispers about subpar interviews with potential coaches adding fuel to the fire. Critics pointed to his confidence as "uppityness," suggesting that his vibrant personality might overshadow the team dynamics, especially considering the heavy involvement of his father in his burgeoning career. Much has been said about his father, Deion, but few have spoken positively about him. Double standards have existed for too long, and forgetfulness is too short. Archie Manning was involved in Eli’s draft, but that standard is accepted. Such conversations raise unsettling questions about bias and exclusivity, evoking a disconcerting sense of nostalgia for a time when individuals of color were expected to remain in the shadows. In this context, it becomes clear that the narrative surrounding Shedeur Sanders touches on deep-seated issues of race and the persistent challenge of overcoming societal expectations. Shedeur Sanders, born into a family of privilege, used his resources to carve out his path through lucrative NIL contracts and engaging advertisements. However, the respect he deserves has largely eluded him, overshadowed by misconceptions about his character. Few recognize the depth of his intelligence and the strategic thinking he employs; Shedeur knows precisely what he’s doing on and off the field.
A stark truth that owners and coaches often refuse to acknowledge is their failure to understand their players' unique perspectives and motivations. Instead of encouraging dialogue and growth, players are typically expected to comply without question, conforming to a rigid hierarchy. How many leaders have taken the time to inquire about Shedeur’s remarkable academic achievements? With a GPA hovering around an impressive 3.97, he stands as a testament to dedication and hard work, often dismissed as merely “uppity.”
Amidst the pressures and expectations, Shedeur has managed to maintain an unwavering spirit, a feat not easily achieved in the face of judgment and misunderstanding. It raises the question: Do those in authority even notice the resilience and determination he embodies? It appears not. The culture often leans toward “breaking” individuals to enforce compliance, sacrificing their individuality.
The Chicago Bears selected Shedeur in the fifth round, at pick number 144. He celebrated this achievement with his family by jumping into the pool. I hope Shedeur carries a chip on his shoulder and never forgets this moment in football history. Despite the odds stacked against him, he has the potential to equal or surpass Tom Brady's achievements. Never let them see you cry. The people in the world can be so disappointing. This is why we should put our faith in God, not man.
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