Still Chosen: Lessons from Shedeur Sanders, the NFL Draft, and Trusting God’s Timing

The 2025 NFL Draft was full of headlines — but one of the biggest wasn’t about who went first. It was about Shedeur Sanders — and the powerful lessons that came through his story. 🏈

Projected by many to be a first- or second-round pick, Shedeur watched round after round go by without hearing his name. The media swirled with negative commentary:

• Blaming his father, Coach Deion Sanders.

• Criticizing Shedeur’s quiet confidence.

• Pushing the narrative that he needed to be humbled.

• Even suggesting he should distance himself from the very father who had guided him. 😔

But Shedeur stayed composed. Surrounded by family. 🏡❤️Silent. Patient in the waiting. And when the Cleveland Browns finally called his name with the 144th pick in the fifth round, his first response on X wasn’t frustration. It was: "Thank you, God." 🙌🏽

There are so many lessons we can draw from this powerful moment:

1. Sometimes You Don’t Seek the Spotlight — It Finds You. 🌟 Shedeur didn’t chase attention — attention chased him. When you are walking in purpose, sometimes visibility finds you without you asking for it.The key is staying grounded in who you are.

2. How You Wait Matters. ⏳🙏🏽

Waiting with God doesn’t mean doing nothing — it means trusting actively. Shedeur’s quiet trust amidst the noise reminds us: "Be still and know that I am God." — Psalm 46:10 Be still — even when the world is loud.

3. Stay Connected to the Father. 🤎👑

One of the most troubling narratives was the suggestion that Shedeur should "break away and reinvent himself" from Deion Sanders — a devoted and supportive Black father who has consistently provided guidance, coaching, and protection. The article in Athlon Magazine implies that Sanders' influence is harmful. Similarly, in our spiritual journey, the adversary attempts to make us withdraw from God when immediate outcomes aren't visible. However, remaining close to our spiritual Father, God, helps us stay aligned with the wisdom of our God-fearing father and our purpose.

4. Divine Placement Over Placement. 📍

NBC New York labeled Shedeur’s fifth-round selection as a “fall.”But let’s be clear:

• Only about 1.6% of college players ever make it to the NFL.

• Being drafted at all is a blessing that millions dream of, but few achieve.

  
  

Shedeur’s story shows us that success isn’t about early rounds or media rankings — it’s about divine alignment. God’s placement always matters more than public placement. He was drafted exactly where he was meant to be — into a situation designed for growth, opportunity, and visibility. Delay isn’t denial. It’s divine positioning.

And here's the beautiful extra layer.💡Coach David Burrus recently reminded us that "Shedeur" means “Spreader of Light” or “Light of the Almighty. "And that’s exactly what we witnessed: Even through misunderstanding and criticism, Shedeur’s light shined bright — calm, anchored, and unwavering.

In a world quick to criticize confident young Black men, Shedeur didn’t dim his light. He stood firm — knowing who he is and whose he is. 🖤 Shedeur Sanders' journey reminds us that God's timing is perfect. 🌟 Stay faithful. #StillChosen

Closing Prayer:

Lord, teach us to trust You when the world tries to rush us. Help us to stay connected to You, to remember who we are, and to embrace the timing You have designed for our lives. May we carry Your light through every season, waiting with grace and walking in faith. Thank You for choosing us, guiding us, and loving us through every step. Amen. 🙏🏽

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