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Matt Rhule has coached in both the college game, as well as the NFL. He was an assistant for the New York Giants in 2012, and was the head coach for the Carolina Panthers from 2020-22.
He has been around NFL talent, and knows what type of player you have to be to make it to that level.
Rhule, during his time at Nebraska, has also coached against Shedeur Sanders, who is regarded as potentially the No. 2 quarterback in the class behind Cam Ward. However, reports have come out in the past few days that have caused Sanders’ stock to drop.
However, Rhule told ESPN’s Pete Thamel that he would take Sanders at No. 3 overall if he were in the Giants’ position.
“I would take him No. 3 overall. Without a question,” said Rhule, a former Giants assistant. “I think he’s tough. You can quote me on this. This is how strong I feel. He took 12 hits against us. 12 hits. There were 7 sacks. He’s accurate, smart. Sees coverages. Can run if he has to. He’s gone to 2 places that haven’t won and they won.”
The New York Giants are currently drafting at the No. 3 spot, and the team could definitely use help at the quarterback position. The projected starter as of now is Russell Wilson, with Jameis Winston serving as his backup.
For a quarterback going to New York, that will put a huge spotlight on a player. However, Rhule thinks he is more than prepared for the expectations and pressure.
“Here’s why – to me, he’s the guy who can handle the spotlight in New York,” Rhule said. “He’s the only person raised from (childhood) to know to handle the spotlight. Who are some of the greatest-ever QBs in NY – Broadway Joe and Eli Manning. Shedeur was trained at the foot of his dad. He’s got a completely different demeanor. The spotlight there is so large. I think he’ll crush it.”
Arguably, the No. 1 question right now in the 2025 NFL Draft is where Sanders could go. He could potentially go very early on the night, but he may still be on the board when a team like Pittsburgh gets on the clock with the 21st pick.
