Shedeur Sanders' NFL draft slide, already the top storyline throughout the draft, has entered crazy territory. Most people, including Sanders, moved on from discussing the slide and onto how he fits in with the Browns. However, one anonymous Colorado fan could not move past what transpired during draft weekend that quickly.
The "dedicated Colorado football fan" has filed a lawsuit in Georgia federal court seeking $100 million (!) from the league over "the impact of the NFL's actions on his emotional well-being." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit alleges that the NFL violated "antitrust, civil rights, intentional infliction of emotional distress and trauma, and consumer protection laws," per MSNBC's Jordan Rubin.
Here are more details on the complaint: "Despite Sanders’ demonstrated skills and significant attention during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, the NFL drafted him at the 144th pick during the 2025 NFL Draft," said the complaint filed in Georgia federal court by a plaintiff under the pseudonym John Doe. The self-described “dedicated fan of Colorado football” and Georgia resident alleged that reports and leaked statements about Sanders negatively influenced the league’s decision-making process, “causing emotional distress and trauma to the Plaintiff as a fan and consumer." On top of the nine-figure money damages, the suit seeks a “formal acknowledgment from the NFL regarding the emotional distress caused by their actions and statements,” a “retraction of the slanderous statements made about Shedeur Sanders, along with an apology for any harm caused to his reputation” and implementation of "fairer practices in the drafting process to ensure that talented players are recognized and given opportunities based on merit.” In simple terms, the Colorado fan believes Sanders' draft slide caused him so much emotional distress and trauma that the NFL owes him money for his troubles.
The claim is absurd and likely to be dismissed before it progresses. Sanders has some die-hard fans who obviously will go to great lengths to fight for their favorite players. Still, both parties are unlikely to receive any financial or even "emotional" compensation for his draft slide.
Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The former Colorado star will now look to make a name for himself in a crowded quarterback room in Cleveland that features Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett and fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel. He begins his professional career this week with the Browns' rookie minicamp. Follow Charlie Strella on X, Threads and Instagram.
Contact/Follow us @BuffaloesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Colorado news, notes and opinions. This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado fan files crazy lawsuit over Shedeur Sanders' NFL draft slide
