Bomani Jones: Comparing Shedeur Sanders to Colin Kaepernick is "Stupid"

Dismissing Kaepernick Comparisons

• 🎯 The comparison between Shedeur Sanders' draft position and Colin Kaepernick's situation is labeled as "stupid" and infuriating.
• 💡 The core argument is that Kaepernick has been blackballed from the NFL since 2017, a stark contrast to Sanders being drafted in the fifth round.
• ⚠️ The speaker emphasizes that Kaepernick's lack of an NFL job is the definitive sign of being blackballed, not a mid-round draft selection.

Shedeur Sanders' Draft Situation

• ❓ Sanders was not projected as a first-round pick, and his fifth-round selection is presented as not unreasonable, especially since some expected him to slide further.
• 🗣️ The idea that Sanders is outspoken or has a cause is challenged, with the speaker stating there's no evidence of him speaking out on significant issues.
• 🏈 If the league intended to send a message to Sanders or his father, Dion Sanders, a fifth-round pick is not the method, as Kaepernick's situation demonstrates.

Evolution of Black Quarterbacks in the NFL

• 📈 The NFL landscape for black quarterbacks has evolved significantly from 10-20 years ago, with more opportunities for career backup roles.
• 🤝 The importance of being a "great hang" and a good teammate is highlighted as crucial for backup quarterbacks, often mattering more than raw talent.
• 🌟 Players like Geno Smith and Tyrod Taylor are cited as examples of quarterbacks who have sustained careers as backups, a path less available in previous eras.

Criticisms and Misguided Comparisons

• 🚫 Comparing Sanders to Kaepernick is dismissed because Kaepernick sacrificed his career for a cause, whereas Sanders' perceived "cause" is himself.
• 🏈 The example of Johnny Manziel and Baker Mayfield is used to illustrate that draft position doesn't always correlate with immediate NFL success, and Sanders is not on their level of college achievement.
• 📢 Those making these comparisons are urged to "shut up" if they don't understand the nuances, as their misguided arguments distract from more important issues and do a disservice to Sanders himself.