A dedicated fan of quarterback Shedeur Sanders has filed a $100 million federal lawsuit against the NFL, claiming emotional distress after Sanders fell to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. The fan, who filed under the pseudonym “John Doe,” alleges that the league’s teams colluded to pass on Sanders, causing him psychological trauma as a fan and consumer.
Doe, 55, is representing himself in court. He said his disappointment stemmed from high expectations surrounding Sanders, who was once projected as a top-three pick. The former Colorado Buffaloes star was ultimately drafted 144th overall by the Cleveland Browns.
“It was immediate frustration,” Doe told The Independent. “This guy was projected to be the first or second pick, and to watch mediocre players be chosen before him… it was frustrating.”
Lawsuit Alleges Collusion and Emotional Harm
Doe’s lawsuit accuses the NFL of violating the Sherman Antitrust Act by allegedly conspiring to influence draft outcomes. He also cites slander, emotional harm, and potential racial bias against Sanders, son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders.
“Reports suggested Sanders ‘tanked interviews,’ ‘wasn’t prepared,’ and ‘was too cocky,’” the suit reads. “These slanderous statements reflect biases that influenced the NFL’s decision-making process.”
NFL Hall of Famer Cris Carter, speaking on The Art of Dialogue podcast, dismissed the collusion theory. Stating that the Sanders family “overplayed their hand.” NFL officials have not responded to the lawsuit.
Doe claims the emotional damage he experienced is worth $100 million, combining personal distress with Sanders’ alleged financial losses from slipping in the draft. “I just want people to know there’s always a way for you to gain power,” he said. “I believe the NFL thinks they’re above the law.”
Legal experts aren’t convinced. Law professor Eugene Volokh called the lawsuit “frivolous” and predicted a swift dismissal, citing lack of standing and vague claims.
Still, Doe remains defiant. He’s using a pseudonym to shield his Atlanta-based logistics business and says he hopes to eventually donate any winnings to youth football programs. A noble deed indeed. But if this does work out as he plans, we are sure to see others following the same path. Time will tell.
“I don’t have a legal team yet,” he admitted. “But I want to hold the NFL accountable.”
While the case may not last long in court, it highlights how deeply fans connect to players like Shedeur Sanders—and the extreme ways disappointment can manifest.
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