Through the prism of the Patriots, the first round of the NFL Draft was sensible and anticlimactic. But through the broader perspective of the entire first round ― broadcast live, of course, and in staggering detail by ESPN, ABC, and the NFL Network ― suspense was not lacking, particularly when it came to one very famous and polarizing prospect.

Sanders, who was ranked as the No. 23 overall prospect and No. 2 quarterback available on 2025 B/R NFL Draft Big Board, had been discussed in some early mock drafts as a potential top-three pick and a competitor with Ward as the top quarterback in the draft.