ESPN NFL draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. was criticized again for favoring Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders over others, including the first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Although Ward landing with the Titans had long been a lock, much of Kiper’s draft commentary was centered on Shedeur, even after the Giants — who had done the most homework on Sanders’ son — traded back into the first round to select Ole Miss QB Jaxson Dart at No. 25 overall.

Perhaps nobody advocated more for Shedeur Sanders during the 2025 NFL draft than ESPN broadcaster Mel Kiper Jr., and the Cleveland Browns rookie's famous father appreciated the support.